Gauchos score 16 in the 909

The Saddleback softball program had its biggest offensive output of the season on Friday when it traveled to Riverside City College and blasted the Tigers, 16-3.  The Gauchos erupted for nine runs in the seventh inning and took advantage of a number of Riverside errors.

Saddleback had scored just four runs in the previous four games but made a statement to Riverside on Friday by rapping out 12 hits.  The Gauchos also took advantage of six Tiger errors, taking a commanding 7-3 lead into the seventh inning. 

Things completely fell apart for RCC in the top half of the seventh when Saddleback scored nine runs, sending 12 batters to the plate.  The Gauchos had seven hits in the inning, including home runs by Libby Riehl and Samantha Molina.  The first eight batters of the inning reached base safely and Molina had two hits in the inning, including a two-run blast to cap the scoring and give the Gauchos a 16-3 lead. 

Saddleback pitcher Nelsa Barilea pitched a complete game to improve to 5-5 on the season.  Barilea struck out three while walking just one in moving into a tie for fourth place in OEC play.

Saddleback will play again Wednesday when they host Fullerton College.  The first pitch is scheduled for 3:00 PM on Wednesday.