Washington extended their losing streak to seven on Thursday, dropping them down to 2-11. They came up short against the Independence Patriots, falling 12-3. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Patriots this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 15-14 on Tuesday.
Washington saw two different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Jasmine Salazar, who went 2-for-4 with two stolen bases and two runs.
As for Independence, they pushed their record up to 9-1 with the win, which was their sixth straight at home dating back to last season. The result was nothing new for the Patriots, who have now won eight contests by six runs or more so far this season.
On Independence's side, Nailea Lopez Flores made a splash while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, not allowing a single earned run and allowing only one hit while striking out 13 over seven innings pitched. Lopez Flores has been consistent: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in five consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-4 with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Lily Ragnoli, who went 2-for-4 with two stolen bases, three runs, and one RBI. She has been hot, having posted at least one stolen base the last five times she's played. Jasmine Pearson was another key player, going 1-for-4 with two stolen bases, one run, and one RBI.
Looking ahead, Washington will take on Copper Canyon at 3:45 p.m. on Monday. The Rams' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Aztecs have averaged an impressive 6.5 runs per game this season. As for Independence, they will square off against La Joya Community at 3:45 p.m. on Monday.
