The California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) Otters softball team faced off against the California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) Toros as part of their two-game series on April 30.
CSUDH took the lead early into the game, scoring two runs in the top of the first inning thanks to Raquel Jaime (#7) and Chenoa Au (#11). The Otters tried to rally as they did in the 11 a.m. game against the Toros, but were unsuccessful.
Dominguez Hills continued to broaden their lead against the Otters throughout the third and seventh innings. At the top of the third inning, Kianna Abellera (#10) singled to the left side, followed by her teammate Jaime, who hit a double down the right field line, allowing Abellera to advance to second base. Next up was Claudia L. Valencia (#6), who hit a single to the pitcher, allowing Abellera to make it safely home and add another run to the scoreboard for the Toros.
The score did not waver throughout the fourth, fifth, and sixth innings. Both teams battled back and forth to add runs to the scoreboard, but neither emerged from that deadlock until the seventh inning, when Dominguez Hills furthered their lead on the Otters. Katelyn Sturm (#26) made the play of the game and hit a home run down center field, the ball just barely missed the glove of the CSUMB field player as it sailed over the fence.
The game’s final run was from Haylee Garcia (#9), who was able to score after her teammate Jaime fouled out to right field. The game’s final score was 5-0, with Dominguez Hill taking home the win.
The Otters play next in the CCAA tournament on May 5. For more information about game times and travel schedules, visit otterathletics.com!