By John M. Sherrard
(Walnut, CA) For the second year in a row the Mt. SAC Softball team has raced out to a 7-0 start after an 11-0 victory over L.A. Harbor College Thursday afternoon in a South Coast Conference crossover game that was halted after five innings.
The freshman-heavy lineup was led by pitcher Alex Andrade, who gave up only two hits in the circle and struck out three batters for her first college win.
Six of the nine Mountie freshmen batters in the lineup combined for eight of the 12 hits in the game.
They were led by shortstop Carissa Felix who had two hits, two runs scored and four RBIs, which was highlighted by a two-run home run.
"The majority of the freshmen played this game and it was a great example that no matter who we put in, they will play the 'Mountie Way'", Mt. SAC Head Coach Ruby Rojas said.
"The game does not care if you are a freshman, a sophomore or an All-American. The game rewards those that respect the game, play with endless effort and play hard. I was proud of our freshman today."
The round-tripper by Felix was the first of her college career. She is the younger sister of former Mt. SAC 2015 state player of the year, Celina Felix, (University of Texas), who banged out 38 homers in her two seasons.
Sophomore left fielder Aleyah Wilbon knocked in two runs for the Mounties, including a double and a triple. Freshman right fielder Julissa Saldivar (2 for 3) also hit a three-bagger along with two runs scored and a RBI.
Two other Mounties, freshman second baseman Krystall Padilla (2 for 3, run) and Jazmin Orozco (2 for 3, run, RBI) collected two hits each.
Mt. SAC put the game away early with 11 runs in the first three innings, that included four in the second and five in the third.
Defensively for the Mounties, freshman Jackie Hooper made some great defensive plays at first and freshman Jackie Olvera (2 walks) was solid behind the plate.
Mt. SAC will play at home on Saturday, weather permitting, against Grossmont at noon and will play a double header at home on Tuesday at 2 and 4 pm against El Camino-Compton Center.
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For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at 909.274.4630.