SOFTBALL SHUTSOUT CERRO COSO TO REMAIN #1 IN IEAC

The Panthers took on Cerro Coso yesterday afternoon, defeating the Coyotes 8-0.  The conference shutout was the team's 7th of the season and gave Chaffey the series sweep.

The team put a single run on the board in the 1st and 2nd but it was a big four run 4th inning that solidly put the game out of reach for Coso.  "Clarissa Banuelos had a clutch 2-out single to drive in a pair of runs in the 4^th inning to give us a cushion," said Head Coach Jerry Tivey.  "When she 'starts' the offense from the bottom of the lineup, it makes us that much stronger."

Lexi Alaniz-Diaz had a stellar game going 3-3 at the plate, with two runs and an RBI.  "It was great to see Lexi get back on track with her hitting. That adds depth to our offensive production."

Violet Salazar was 3-4 on the day grabbing two runs and three RBIs.  Salazar opened the game for Chaffey's bullpen, pitching to 14 batters and giving up one hit.  It was her 12th season win.  Salazar currently leads the league in runs scored, hits, RBIs and game wins.  "Both Violet Salazar and Celeste Paniagua pitched well and our defense continued to play flawlessly. We're feeling pretty good about where we are at this point."  Paniagua entered in the 5th taking on the final 9 batters in the 6-inning game.

The Panthers play an LA Harbor double Saturday and then take on Cerritos Wednesday in non-conference action.  The team resumes IEAC play Friday at San Bernardino Valley.