Cuesta Softball hosted Santa Monica to complete their first swing through the Western State Conference.  The Cougars made quick work of the visiting Corsairs with a run-rule victory, 16-1, in the 5th inning. The Cougars opened the day by scoring four runs on four hits in their first turn at the plate to set the tone.  The Corsairs answered during their second turn at the plate, with Alexa Escobar connecting for a one-out, single before stealing a base and scoring on a Jodi Shuler double to make the score 4-1.  However, during their next turn at the plate, the Cougars put the game out of reach with nine runs on seven hits, including home runs by Abbey Jones and Addy Finegan,  to build an insurmountable lead, 13-1.  An inning later, First Baseman Brielle Burt connected for a two-run home run, while Finegan singled in a run for a little insurance.  Cuesta Pitcher Shelbi Griffith (pict) did not need much help. After the Corsairs scoring in their lone run, she retired 11 of the next dozen Corsairs to seal her victory.  All ten Cuesta players scored during the game, while nine of them contributed to the team's 17 hits.  All-WSC Third Baseman Addy Finegan went 4-for-4 on the day, while scoring three times and posted 4 RBI.  She also increased her State Leading Home Run (18) and Runs Batted In (53) totals, while her partner on the left side, Shortstop Abbey Jones went 3-for-4, including a Double and Home Run.  She also scored twice and drove in three runs.   The win moved the Cougars' overall record to 10-19 on the season and an even 3-3 in WSC play.  

 

The Cougars shall take a break from the Western State Conference this Saturday with a non-conference twinbill in Bakersfield.  The Cougars are scheduled to play both the host Renegades (Noon) and the pride of El Cajon, the Grossmont Griffins (2:30).  Softball will be back in front of the Cuesta Faithful next Tuesday (2 PM), when they begin their final swing through the WSC against Moorpark.