When it was pointed out to Gilroy softball coach Catherine
Hallada that each of the Mustangs’ games this season have either
ended in shutouts or 11-1 scores, she smiled.
When it was pointed out to Gilroy softball coach Catherine Hallada that each of the Mustangs’ games this season have either ended in shutouts or 11-1 scores, she smiled.
Gilroy’s second 11-1 win came Friday night in the opening round of the Circle of Champions when the Mustangs toppled El Camino at the Salinas Sports Complex. It was also shortened after five innings because of the mercy rule.
Hallada knows that will likely be the last 11-1 game involving Gilroy in that competitive tournament, which continues next weekend when the Mustangs face two Saturday games – against Valley Christian and Watsonville.
It took Gilroy (4-1) a couple of innings before it was able to time the pitching of the Colts (0-2).
“She was a little slower than what we’ve faced and the girls were trying to hit it over the fence,” Hallada said. “Instead, they were hitting pop-ups. Once they stopped swinging for the fences and started hitting line drives and hard ground balls, we were able to get our hits. That’s what they were able to do by the third inning.”
GHS scored four runs in each of the third and fifth innings. Kylie Herrada, Lauryn Chris and Jasmine Perez scored two runs each.
The Mustangs banged out 11 hits, led by three each by Perez and Amanda Tellez. Perez and Tellez also had two RBIs apiece. Herrada had two hits.
Meanwhile, junior Melinda Ortiz continued to shine as a pitcher. Ortiz tossed three perfect innings, striking out six.
“She’s doing a fantastic job,” Hallada said. “That’s just what need from her. She’s got a good head on her shoulders and doesn’t seem to get too excited. She’s got a great attitude.”
The Mustangs host Monterey at 3:45pm today.
Gilroy 014 24 – 11 11 1
El Camino 000 01 – 1 2 5
Ortiz, Harrington (4) and Pierotti. W-Ortiz. 2B-Balanesi, Perez.
