ATHERTON, CA – Menlo Softball closed out its four-game PacWest series against Academy of Art on Saturday at Wunderlich Field. Despite flashes of offensive life and strong defensive moments, the Oaks fell in both games, 2-8 and 1-3.
Oak Standouts
Game 1: Menlo 2 - 8 Art U
Academy of Art jumped out to an early lead, scoring two runs in the first inning with help from aggressive base running and timely hits. The Knights added two more in the fourth after a throwing error allowed a pair of runs to come across.
The Oaks stayed in the fight, stringing together five hits in the sixth inning. Alexia Lozano, Tacia Kahalewai, and Lara Edeker fueled the offense before Jolena Velasquez came through with an RBI single to put Menlo on the board. Moments later, Attard added another hit to set up a second run, but a baserunning out ended the rally.
Academy of Art tacked on three more runs in the sixth and one in the seventh, keeping Menlo at bay. Rosaline Torralva started and pitched for 1.1 innings before Destanee Perez came in and closed the remaining 5.2 innings. Perez tallied 2 strikeouts and only walked two batters. Despite the loss, the Oaks showcased their offensive potential with a 10-hit effort.
Game 2: Menlo 1 - 3 Art U
The Urban Knights again came out swinging, scoring three runs in the opening frame. Menlo's defense settled in after that, keeping the game within reach through strong pitching and efficient fielding. The Oaks chipped away in the fourth inning. Attard walked and eventually scored on a sacrifice fly from Velasquez, cutting the deficit to 3-1. Menlo continued to pressure with runners on in the third and fifth innings, but the timely hit to extend the rally never came.
The Urban Knights were held scoreless after the first, and Menlo's pitcher, Shelby White, and the Oak defense held strong. Despite the narrow loss, the Oaks' ability to stay competitive throughout the series leaves promise heading into their next conference matchups.
Up Next…
Menlo Softball is on the road next week with a 4-game PacWest series against the Lions of Vanguard University starting with a doubleheader on Friday, April 18th at 3pm.
