San Rafael, Calif.— Azusa Pacific split the final doubleheader in the four-game series against Dominican on Friday. The Cougars had one run from Jaelah Burrell and one home run from Caitlin Decanio, but fell to the Penguins 2-4 in the first game. Azusa Pacific battled back in the second game, winning 3-1 with runs from Mia Alvarez, Aleah Delgado and Kinsey Erickson.
Game 1: Azusa Pacific 2, Dominican 4
The Penguins did their work early, earning one run in each of the first three innings. Azusa Pacific would score their first and only two runs in the fourth inning, cutting the score 2-3.
Caitlin DeCanio led off the inning with a home run to dead center, followed by Jaelah Burrell who hit a single and worked her way to third base. Burrell was able to score on a single from Izzy Rivera. The Cougars attempted to get a bunt down with two outs, but a groundout to the Penguins pitcher ended the threat.
The Cougars would not score for the last three innings as Dominican added a final run in the fifth inning, making the final score 4-2 in favor of the Penguins.
Game 2: Azusa Pacific 3, Dominican 1
The Cougars started the second game on a strong note, scoring all three runs in the first two innings. In the first inning, Mia Alvarez hit a single to get on base, followed by a double to left field from Izzy Rivera allowing Alvarez to score, giving Azusa Pacific a 1-0 lead.
The Penguins got one back in their half of the first to tie the game at 1-1, but Azusa Pacific continued their offensive efforts in the second inning.
Aleah Delgado reached first on a fielder's choice by the Penguins. Kinsey Erickson stepped up to bat, and on a wild pitch, Delgado advanced to secon. Erickson singled, advancing Delgado to third. A throwing error by the Penguins' catcher allowed Erickson advanced to second base and Delgado to score, giving the Cougars a 2-1 lead. Alvarez then hit a single scoring Erickson to take a 3-1 advantage.
Both teams would remain scoreless for the last five innings. Katie Korstrom pitched a complete game for the Cougars, striking out nine batters, earning her 14th win of the season.
Up next: The Cougars will return back to Azusa for their next games against Hawaii Pacific on Thursday, April 18. The doubleheader is set to start at 4:00 and 6:00 p.m.
