VVC Softball Explodes for 18 Runs in Doubleheader Sweep of Santa Barbara

VVC Softball Explodes for 18 Runs in Doubleheader Sweep of Santa Barbara
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February 27, 2026
The Victor Valley College Softball team delivered a powerful doubleheader sweep on Friday afternoon, defeating Santa Barbara in back‑to‑back games to continue their strong run at home. Behind explosive offense, disciplined at‑bats, and steady pitching, the Rams controlled both matchups from start to finish.

Game 1 Recap — Rams Roll 13–5

VVC exploded offensively in Game 1, scoring 3 in the first, 6 in the second, and 3 in the third to take complete command. The Rams posted 12 hits, pressured the bases with speed, and never allowed Santa Barbara to get back into the game. 

Offensive Highlights

  • Hope Merrill was electric, going 2‑for‑2 with a triple, a double, and 2 RBI, while scoring twice. 
  • Jade Whitman continued her big day, going 2‑for‑2 with 3 RBI, 3 runs scored, and another extra‑base hit. 
  • Haylee Stanislawski drove in 5 RBI on a 2‑for‑3 performance that included a triple. 
  • Makyla Ortiz added a hit, an RBI, and scored once while anchoring the middle of the lineup. 
  • Clarissa Martinez doubled and drove in a run as part of VVC's six‑run second inning. 
  • Jadielyn Rodriguez had a multi‑hit game with 2 hits, 3 runs scored, and 2 stolen bases.
  • Brooke Miller and Samantha Conan each added stolen bases, contributing to VVC's aggressive approach on the bases. 

Pitching

Makyla Ortiz handled all 5 innings, allowing 5 runs on 8 hits while striking out 7. She faced 26 batters and kept VVC in control with run support behind her.

Game 2 Recap — Rams Win 5–3

The Rams set the tone early, matching Santa Barbara's first‑inning run before adding single runs in the second and fifth innings and erupting for a decisive three‑run fourth. Victor Valley collected 9 hits in the game and capitalized on timely hitting throughout the lineup. 

Offensive Highlights

  • Hope Merrill doubled and scored, going 1‑for‑3 and providing an early spark at the top of the order. 
  • Jade Whitman doubled and drove in a run as part of VVC's three‑run fourth inning. 
  • Makyla Ortiz delivered the biggest swing of the game—a three‑run home run—finishing 2‑for‑2 with 3 RBI.
  • Jadielyn Rodriguez chipped in with an RBI single to round out VVC's scoring. 

Pitching

Samantha Conan went the distance, throwing 7.0 innings, allowing 3 runs on 9 hits, and striking out 5 while facing 32 batters. Her consistency in the circle helped the Rams control the pace late in the game.

 Team Highlights

  • Combined Score: VVC 18 – Santa Barbara 8
  • Total Hits: 21 across both games
  • Extra‑Base Hits: 2 HR/3B from Ortiz & Stanislawski; 7 doubles combined
  • Stolen Bases: Rodriguez (2), Miller, Conan
  • Pitching: Complete‑game efforts in both contests
The Rams' ability to dominate early innings, produce in pressure situations, and apply speed on the bases proved decisive in sweeping the doubleheader.

Looking Ahead

The Victor Valley College Rams continue to build momentum as conference play approaches. With consistent pitching and a surging offense, VVC looks to carry this energy into next week's matchups.
Come out and support your Rams as they continue their pursuit of a standout season!
 

Stay connected with the Rams through social media. Follow Victor Valley College Athletics on Twitter @vvc_Rams. Check-in with the Rams on Facebook/VVCathletics and on Instagram @vvcathletics.

For tickets to our VVC Home Athletic events, visit our Ticketing Page here.