ATHERTON, CA – Menlo Softball fought hard but came up short in both games of their doubleheader against Stanislaus State on Wednesday. Despite showing flashes of momentum and resilience, the Oaks were unable to capitalize on key opportunities, falling 7-3 in Game 1 and 3-0 in Game 2.
Oak Standouts:
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Alexia Lozano: 2-for-4, 2 RBI, a double
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Tacia Kahalewai: 2-for-4
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Gabrielle Rodriguez: 2-for-3
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Grace Christian: 2-for-4, a double
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Lucy Brooks: 1-for-2, 2 runs scored, a double
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Destanee Perez: 14.0 IP, 4 K, 8 BB, 13 H, 2 ER, 3 R
Game 1: Menlo 3 - 7 Stanislaus State
The opener started with a strong first inning from Stanislaus State, as they plated the first run. Menlo responded in the second, with Alexia Lozano's two-RBI double down the left-field line, scoring Lucy Brooks and Makayla Mentzer and giving the Oaks a 2-1 lead. However, the Warriors responded with a six-run third inning, capitalizing on multiple Menlo defensive miscues.
Despite solid offensive performances from Tacia Kahalewai, who recorded multiple hits, and Emma Medina's late RBI single to score Brooks again, Menlo couldn't mount a comeback. Destanee Perez owned the circle for game one and was holding her ground, only allowing 6 hits and striking out 3 Warriors batters. Despite Perez doing her job, the Oaks battled with themselves and could not overcome their defensive errors. The Warriors' pitching held strong, closing out the game to secure a 7-3 victory.
Game 2: Menlo 0 - 3 Stanislaus State
Game 2 was a tightly contested battle, with both teams struggling to find offensive rhythm early. Menlo's defense held firm through five scoreless innings before Stanislaus State broke through in the sixth. Two errors proved costly, allowing the Warriors to score three unearned runs.
Menlo's best scoring chance came in the bottom of the fifth when they loaded the bases with a single up the middle from Jolena Velasquez, Lucy Brooks drew a walk, and Alexia Lozano was hit by a pitch. The Oaks were unable to bring a run across after flying out and striking out, leaving three stranded. The Oaks managed just three hits in the contest as Stanislaus State's pitching proved dominant in the 3-0 shutout. Destanee Perez pitched another 7 innings and was just as productive. She allowed 7 hits, struck out one, and walked another 4 batters.
Looking Ahead
While the results weren't in their favor, the Oaks showed promise with solid hitting performances and strong defensive moments. Menlo will look to bounce back in their next matchup on Saturday, April 5th with a doubleheader in Rocklin, CA against the Warriors of Jessup University at 12pm.
