Flinchum, Ortega Lead Pirates Past Bakersfield

Pitcher Ashlyn Flinchum struck out 13 batters and second baseman Jocelyn Ortega collected all four runs batted in as the Pirate softball team defeated Bakersfield 4-3 Tuesday at the VC Softball Complex. Flinchum scattered five hits in yielding three runs in the complete game in the circle while Ciana Garcia had a hit and two walks, scoring two runs. Morgan Albertsen and Lauren Albrent also scored for Ventura (4-0-1) on the day.

The Renegades got on the board first, scoring one run in the top of the second inning for a 1-0 lead.

Ventura answered with a pair of scores in the bottom half of the third inning. Albertsen led off with a single and Garcia followed with a walk. One out later, Albrent singled to load the bases. With two outs, Ortega delivered the clutch single, scoring two as VC took a 2-1 advantage.

In the bottom of the fifth, the Pirates added to the margin. Garcia singled and Albrent reached on an error one out later. Isabel Gallegos grounded to second to move the runners forward one base before Ortega reached first on an error, scoring Albrent and Garcia.

Bakersfield rallied in the top of the sixth, scoring two runs on a pair of hits and a walk. VC catcher Isabella Ayala ended the threat, however, throwing out a would-be base-stealer at second to retire the side.

The Pirates held on for the 4-3 victory.

Ventura next hosts Santiago Canyon for a doubleheader on Friday Feb. 3. The first game is slated to begin at 12:00 pm at the VC Softball Complex.