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A two-run first inning helped the Hollister softball team take an early lead en route to an eventual 9-3 win over Vanden High School in the NorCal softball championships on June 2.
The Balers will advance to a semifinal matchup on June 4.
Baler head coach Andrew Barragan said scoring two runs in the first inning was the key to the win.
“That’s something we said we needed to do, to jump on this team right away,” Barragan said.
Hollister tacked on three more runs in the second to take a 5-0 lead. They also scored another in the sixth and three more in the last inning.
Baler defense, led by ace pitcher freshman Sidney Esparza, allowed a run in the fourth and two in the seventh.
The Balers, who are ranked fifth in the Division 2 tournament, are scheduled to face Alameda High, ranked No. 1 overall, on June 4 at 4 p.m. at Alameda High.
Barragan said the team will lean on Esparza’s arm.
“We’re looking at another Sydney Esparza outing to keep us in position to keep us in the game,” he said, noting he expects a pitchers duel.
Barragan said offensively the key will be his two leadoff hitters, senior catcher Avery Chavez and senior shortstop Ashley Io, getting on base to set up big at-bats for Esparza and senior third baseman Madalyne Rodriguez.
Rodriguez had three hits against Vanden.
“If they get on base, it’ll be a good day for the Balers,” Barragan said.
He added Hollister will have to be patient and selective at the plate.
BenitoLink thanks our underwriter, Hollister Rotary, for helping expand the sports coverage around San Benito County. Rotary is a nonprofit organization that conducts humanitarian projects, encourages high ethical standards, and works toward world understanding. All editorial decisions are made by BenitoLink.
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