LA MIRADA, CA – Menlo Softball wrapped up its PacWest series against Biola University on Tuesday but couldn't overcome early deficits in either game of the doubleheader, falling 0-15 in five innings in game one and 0-2 in a closely contested battle. The Oaks will return home for one final PacWest series against the Penguins of Dominican University on Saturday, April 26th, for Senior Day.
Oak Standouts
Game One: Biola 15, Menlo 0 (5 innings)
The Eagles struck quickly in the first inning of game one, capitalizing on a pair of Menlo defensive miscues and stringing together five runs on four hits. A three-run home run and an RBI triple set the tone as Biola built a 5-0 lead after one. They continued their offensive surge in the second with another four runs. Menlo had early chances with runners in scoring position after hits from Aleatha Buchner, Emma Medina, and Bella Cortez in the first inning, but the Oaks were unable to cash in. The third inning saw Biola push their lead to double digits with a four-run frame, highlighted by a three-run homer. Menlo's offense couldn't find a rhythm against the Eagles' pitching and the game was called after five innings due to the run rule.
Shelby White started in the circle for Game one and went 1.0 innings before Rosaline Torralva stepped up for the final 3.0 innings of work.
Game Two: Biola 2, Menlo 0
Game two proved to be a much tighter contest, thanks to a strong effort in the circle from Menlo's starting pitcher, Shelby White. White held Biola to just two runs across six innings and gave the Oaks a chance to stay in the game. The Eagles scored their first run in the third, then added an insurance run in the fourth. The Oaks continued to battle at the plate and put runners aboard in five of the seven innings but couldn't break through against Biola's dominant defense.
Emma Medina and Bella Cortez both notched multiple hits across the doubleheader, while Grace Tuitelleapaga added a single in game two. Despite solid at-bats, Menlo was unable to capitalize with runners on, leaving eight runners stranded over both games.
Up Next…
Oaks Softball is set to celebrate their 6 graduating seniors on Saturday, April 26th at 11am before their doubleheader against the Penguins on Dominican University at Wunderlich Field on the campus of Menlo College. First pitch is set for 12pm.
