LONG BEACH, CA – After delivering one of the most complete conference performances in program history, Menlo Softball has been named the PacWest Conference Team of the Week following a dominant four-game sweep of Vanguard at Wunderlich Field. The Oaks swept the series across two doubleheaders, securing their first conference sweep of the 2026 season under head coach Mckinsey Thorpe. Menlo combined dramatic late-inning heroics, explosive offense, and dominant pitching to take all four games from the Lions in a statement PacWest performance.

 

By the Numbers

4 Consecutive wins for Menlo in the series sweep over Vanguard Lions softball

2 Walk-off victories during the series

27 Total runs scored by the Oaks across the four games

20+ Combined hits from Menlo's offense in the final doubleheader alone

2 Wins by Alysia Elizarrey, including one complete-game shutout

3 Extra-base hits in the series from Gabrielle Rodriguez, including a three-run home run

4 RBIs in the series from Tacia Kahalewai, including the walk-off winner

3 Scoreless relief innings from Rosaline Torralva in the comeback victory

1 First PacWest Conference series sweep of the 2026 season for the Oaks under Mckinsey Thorpe

 

Offensive Firepower

Menlo Softball's offense delivered production from top to bottom of the lineup throughout the four-game sweep. Gabrielle Rodriguez led the charge with multiple extra-base hits across the series, including a three-run home run in the finale that helped put the game out of reach. Tacia Kahalewai consistently delivered in key moments, driving in several clutch runs, including the walk-off RBI in the second day's opener.

Speed played a major role in Menlo's offensive pressure as Lucy Brooks repeatedly ignited rallies, reaching base frequently and swiping multiple bags to disrupt the Lions' defense. The Oaks' lineup depth was on full display with contributions from Emma Medina, Alina Perez, and Sierra Pasco, who combined for key RBIs and extra-base hits during several multi-run innings. The series also featured two dramatic walk-off victories, highlighted by Grace Tuiteleleapaga delivering a pinch-hit RBI single in the bottom of the seventh to secure a thrilling 5-4 victory in the opening doubleheader.

 

Dominance in the Circle

Menlo's pitching staff provided the stability behind the sweep, with standout performances from Alysia Elizarrey, Lela Yslava, and Rosaline Torralva. Elizarrey led the way with two wins in the series, including a complete-game shutout in the opening doubleheader and a strong seven-inning effort in the finale to secure the sweep.

Yslava set the tone early by tossing a complete-game victory in the series opener, keeping the Lions in check during key moments. Torralva provided critical relief during Menlo's comeback win on day two, delivering three scoreless innings that allowed the Oaks' offense the opportunity to rally. Together, the trio combined timely pitching with strong defensive support to limit the Lions and seal the program's first PacWest Conference series sweep of the 2026 season.

 

Up Next…

Menlo Softball will host Jessup University at Wunderlich field on Friday, March 20th, with the doubleheader beginning at 12pm. Follow along using the links at Menloathletics.com.