Lady Jags Advance to Second Round of Playoffs with Win Over Reedley
Despite a resilient Reedley College softball team, SJCC won the third and decisive game in the NorCal Regional Playoffs and advanced to the second round.
After a shut-out win (5-0) over Reedley College, the Jaguars will move on to the second round of the CCCAA Northern California Regional Playoffs. The Lady Jags had to wait a day to clinch the first round after rain delayed play on Saturday.
Reedley made the most of its playoff bid when it beat the Jags 3-1 in game two earlier in the day. Game three was a must-win for both teams to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Game three started off as a defensive battle, with both teams unable to score in the first three innings. However, in the bottom of the fourth inning, SJCC managed to break the deadlock by scoring two runs. Faamaai Ulu drove in two runs with a hit, giving SJCC a 2-0 lead.
In the bottom of the sixth inning, SJCC extended their lead with three more runs. Karissa Smith and Isabella Giambruno both drove in runs, and Ashley Skipper hit a double to bring in another run, making the score 5-0.
On the defensive side, SJCC's pitcher, Evangelina Chavarria, had an outstanding performance. She pitched a complete game, allowing only one hit and no runs. Chavarria also struck out three batters and walked three. Her dominant performance on the mound was a key factor in SJCC's victory.
Reedley struggled to get their offense going against Chavarria. They only managed one hit in the game, which came in the top of the fifth inning. Despite their efforts, they were unable to score any runs against SJCC's strong pitching.
Overall, SJCC's offense and pitching were the difference-makers in this game. They capitalized on their scoring opportunities and shut down Reedley's offense to secure the win. With this victory, SJCC advances to the next round of the playoffs, taking on Sierra College at home. The first game is scheduled for Friday, with the second and third games, if necessary, scheduled for Saturday.