Box Score 1 | Box Score 2 The Benedictine Mesa Softball Team had an impressive showing in their doubleheader against Nelson University, winning both games with scores of 6-4 and 8-6.

Game 1:
In an exciting matchup, the Redhawks showcased their offensive skills and secured a 6-4 victory. The game began strong for Benedictine in the third inning, where Leiana Madrazo set the tone with a two-run double, allowing aelynn. Corona and Annaleia Jenkins to cross the plate for a 2-0 lead. Madrazo continued to shine, later scoring on a single from Shayera McDaniel to extend the lead to 3-0.

However, the momentum shifted in the fourth inning when Nelson capitalized on defensive errors. Duke reached first on a fielding error by Benedictine's second baseman, bringing in two unearned runs as A. Rodriguez and M. Rodriguez scored. Duke later scored on a single from Sanchez, leveling the game at 3-3.

The sixth inning proved crucial for Benedictine as Madrazo continued his outstanding performance with a triple to right center, driving in Brandee Ayala and Amaya Ruiz to regain the lead at 5-3. McDaniel followed with a single that brought Madrazo home, pushing the score to 6-3.

In the seventh, Nelson attempted to rally with Rojas hitting a single that brought in a run and another fielding error narrowing the score to 6-4. However, Benedictine held strong and claimed the victory, demonstrating resilience and teamwork throughout the game.

Game 2:
In the second game, the Redhawks triumphed with a final score of 8-6, showcasing their offensive prowess and determination. The Redhawks struck first in the opening inning when McDaniel doubled to left center, bringing Madrazo home for an early 1-0 lead. They quickly added another run as Arrianna Chiago executed a well-placed bunt single, advancing McDaniel to third and scoring on a fielding error by Nelson's first baseman, making it 2-0.

Nelson responded in the third inning, with Celaya hitting a double that brought Sanchez and Duke across home plate, leveling the score at 2-2. The Warriors took the lead in the fifth when Rojas capitalized on a fielding error by Benedictine's catcher, allowing Sanchez to score and pushing the score to 3-2 in favor of Nelson.

The game turned in favor of Benedictine in the seventh inning when Gabrielle Perez doubled through the left side, scoring Brandee Ayala and tying the game at 3-3. The Redhawks took charge in the eighth inning, beginning with Ayala walking in a run that allowed Amaya Ruiz to score. Madrazo then delivered a clutch double to left center, driving in three runs as Ayala, Jenkins, and Mariah Caldwell crossed home plate, extending the lead to 7-3. Perez capped off the scoring with a single that brought Madrazo home, pushing the score to 8-3.

Despite a late push from Nelson in the eighth inning, where Sanchez walked in a run and Philpot hit a single that brought in two more runs, narrowing the score to 8-6, Benedictine's strong performance earlier in the game secured their victory.

Key Performers:

• Leiana Madrazo: 2 doubles, 1 triple, 3 hits, 2 runs, 7 RBIs, 2 stolen bases
• Gabrielle Perez: 1 double, 2 hits, 2 RBIs
• Shayera McDaniel: 1 run, 3 hits, 3 RBIs, 3 stolen bases

Looking Ahead:
The Redhawks will return to the field as they face Carroll College at home on Saturday, February 8th.