Softball Recap: Gustine Comes Up Short

Gustine had lost three straight at home, but on Monday they dropped their record down to 7-15 to make it four. They came up short against the Le Grand Bulldogs, falling 17-0. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Bulldogs this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 16-0 back in March.

As for Le Grand, they have been performing incredibly well recently as they've won 16 of their last 17 contests. That's provided a massive bump to their 17-6 record this season. Considering they have won 15 games by more than five runs this season, Monday's blowout was nothing new.

For Le Grand's part, Ava Avila was a major factor no matter where she played. She kept things locked down with no earned runs or hits while striking out 12 over five innings pitched. Avila has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than two walks in 22 consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, getting on base in four of her five plate appearances with three runs, three RBI, and one stolen base.

In other batting news, Crystal Manzo was incredible, going 3-for-5 with five RBI, two runs, and one triple. Those five RBI gave her a new career-high. Karly Reyes was another key player, getting on base in all four of her plate appearances with two stolen bases, two runs, and one RBI.

Looking ahead, Gustine will challenge Stone Ridge Christian at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. The Reds are facing the Knights at the right time seeing as the Knights are stuck on a three-game losing streak. As for Le Grand, they will square off against Mariposa County at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. The Grizzlies will roll in looking for their sixth straight win, something the Bulldogs surely won't give up without a fight.