Saddleback claims runner-up trophy

The Saddleback softball team finished in second place at the 3C2A State Softball Tournament on Sunday in Bakerfield.  The Bobcats made a historic run before falling to Palomar College in the state finals.

Saddleback was playing its sixth game in four days and running on fumes but kept its composure throughout despite falling 13-0 in the final game of the season.  The Bobcats ran into a Palomar squad that came into the game at 44-2 and had outscored their opponents 41-5 in the tournament entering the game on Sunday. 

Saddleback fell behind 11-0 through two innings of play as Palomar hit two home runs in each inning.  The Comets were rested and ready, sending a message they were not going to be denied.

Saddleback had a handful of opportunities to cut into the lead but was unable to piece together enough hits against all-state pitcher Kiara Flavia, who struck out seven in five innings in improving to 38-1 on the season.

Saddleback had some great stories along the way.  The Bobcats lost the opening game of the tournament against Northern California power San Mateo, sending them into the loser's bracket.  The Bobcats then ripped off four straight wins to capture the bracket title, beating San Mateo 4-3 on Saturday night to knock the top team in the northern half of the state out of the tournament.

Saddleback had four players claim all-tournament awards following the tournament.  Ka'ui Garcia was named the Tournament's Best Hitter while Colette Howren, Kylee Cammarato and Millie Maher were all named to the all-tournament team.

Saddleback finishes the season 36-15, which was the fourth most wins in a season in program history.