Norco, Los Alamitos and Gahr maintain the top three positions in the state, but losses last week by the No. 4 and No. 5 teams causes some changes. Buena gets a big boost while Amador Valley is back to No. 5
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(Through games of Saturday, April 29; Previous ranking in parentheses)
1. (1) Norco 26-0
We almost hate to mention it since it could jinx the team, but at this point of the season the Cougars still have not trailed at the end of any inning in any game. Taylor Dockins also now needs just two more wins to tie CIF Southern Section record for most career pitching wins.
Sophomore catcher Kinzie Hansen of Norco is one of the top college prospects in the nation in her class. She has committed to Oklahoma. Photo: FloSoftball.com.
2. (2) Los Alamitos 21-3
Like Norco, it doesn’t look like the Griffins are going to be taking a loss heading into the CIFSS Division I playoffs either.
3. (3) Gahr (Cerritos) 20-0
On a team with so many big hitters, junior Madison Huskey (who of course is committed to Washington) is nevertheless distinguishing herself. She’s among state leaders in homers and had three doubles in one game last week and three homers in another.
4. (6) Lutheran (Orange) 22-4
Sophomore Mya Rodriguez went 4 for 4 with two doubles and four runs batted in while Maddy Dwyer allowed just one hit with 11 strikeouts over four innings in a 7-0 win vs. Santa Margarita.
5. (8) Amador Valley (Pleasanton) 16-3
Not only did the Dons avenge one of their losses last week with a win against Livermore, but a team they beat earlier this season, Benicia, is the one that just knocked out previous No. 4 Sacramento Sheldon. Amador’s only other losses are to Orange Lutheran and Los Al.
6. (14) Buena (Ventura) 15-0-1
This is the spot the Bulldogs get to jump to after their 1-0 win in seven innings against previous No. 5 Rio Mesa of Oxnard. Some of their other earlier wins, especially one vs. Camarillo, also are looking better and better.
7. (7) San Marcos 21-4
The Knights only got one official win last week after a game in which they were leading Oceanside 7-0 had to be stopped when a line drive smashed into the face of Oceanside’s pitcher. According to San Marcos’ Facebook page, the pitcher should be okay.
8. (5) Rio Mesa (Oxnard) 23-1-1
It looks like freshman Alicia Estrada is going to be one of those pitchers who’s going to give Rio Mesa a chance to win any game against any opponent. The Spartans just have to drop this week behind Ventura County rival Buena.
