The Eagles put together their most complete wins of the season by pitching efficiently and effectively while scoring just enough runs to claim victories over the Vanguard University Lions.
Balanced Approach
In game one, the Eagles brought a balanced approach to defeat the Lions 5-3. The Lions got on the board first in the second inning on an RBI single off freshman pitcher Kaile Chavez. Chavez had a decent statline, pitching two innings and allowing two runs on two hits while striking out two batters.
Biola answered the Lions right back, scoring two runs in the third off an RBI single from junior utility hitter and relief pitcher Kimmy Triolo and an RBI sac fly by senior third baseman Lliana Morales that scored Triolo. Vanguard took the lead back in the fourth to take a 3-2 lead off senior pitcher Kendall Maddox, who entered the game in relief of Chavez. Maddox pitched well in her outing as she went two innings while allowing one run on one hit.
Last Lead Change
The last lead change of the game came off an RBI single by Maddox that scored freshman shortstop Andi Hormel. Senior Catcher Bria Madrid sealed the deal with an RBI single that scored junior outfielder Kasey Hormel. Triola relieved Maddox after the fourth inning and pitched phenomenally, making up for her rough outing against Menlo. Triolo pitched three innings, allowing only two hits, no runs and two strikeouts.
Biola successfully took their momentum into the second game versus Vanguard.
Powering the Offense
Senior third baseman Heather Hall helped power the Eagles’ offense to similar results in a 5-2 win. Hall went 3-3 with a double and one RBI. Madrid also continued to display her offensive prowess by going 1-3 with an RBI and two runs scored. The Eagles displayed strong pitching for the third straight game as Chavez came back to her usual efficient self while Maddox the starter and Triolo the reliever shut down the Lions’ offense.
The Eagles displayed the type of play they sought after all year, efficient offense and stable pitching. In the Matchup against Vanguard, Biola pitchers combined to allow only 10 hits, five runs and five strikeouts in 14 innings of work.
Looking Forward
With the win against Vanguard, The Eagles move closer to .500 at 15-17-1 and stand 3-8 in the Golden State Athletic Conference.
The Eagles will look to take a two game upswing home against Hamline University Wednesday March 23 at 2 and 4 p.m.
