Rams Split Doubleheader With College of the Desert Behind Thrilling 10‑Inning Victory

The Victor Valley College Softball team earned a hard‑fought series split against College of the Desert on Friday, highlighted by a dramatic 13–10 win in 10 innings in the opener of the doubleheader. The Rams showed resilience, clutch hitting, and endurance to secure the extra‑inning victory before falling in the nightcap.

Game 1 Recap — Rams Outlast Desert 13–10 in 10 Innings

Victor Valley delivered one of its grittiest performances of the season in the opener, outlasting College of the Desert in a 10‑inning thriller to secure the series highlight.

The Rams struck early with a run in the first inning and added another in the fourth before erupting for a six‑run fifth inning to seize momentum. College of the Desert responded late to force extra innings, but Victor Valley stayed composed and answered with three runs in the 10th inning to close out the win.

Offensive Highlights (VVC Only)

• Hope Merrill turned in a standout performance, going 3‑for‑6 with two RBI and scoring four runs, setting the tone from the top of the lineup.
• Jade Whitman drove in a key run and managed catching duties through all 10 demanding innings.
• Haylee Stanislawski finished with two hits, an RBI, and two runs scored.
• Samantha Conan contributed two hits and an RBI, delivering in key moments both at the plate and in the circle.
• Alany Esparza came through with one of the biggest swings of the game, smashing a two‑RBI triple.
• Chloe Bledsoe drove in two runs, including a sacrifice fly in a pressure situation.
• Julianna Chavez added a hit, drew a walk, and scored during the extra‑inning rally.

Victor Valley finished the game with 13 runs on 12 hits, capitalizing on key opportunities in the longest game of the season.

Pitching Performance

Samantha Conan went the distance, throwing all 10 innings and battling through traffic to earn the win. Her poise and toughness in extras were instrumental in sealing the victory.

Game 2 Recap — Rams Fall in Nightcap

In the second game of the doubleheader, Victor Valley was held to one run on six hits. The Rams put runners on base throughout the contest but were unable to generate sustained offense.

VVC Highlights

• Samantha Minghelli led the offense, going 2‑for‑3 from the leadoff spot.
• Hope Merrill and Chloe Bledsoe each recorded hits, with Bledsoe driving in the Rams' lone run.
• Samantha Conan scored Victor Valley's only run after reaching base.

Despite the result, the Rams closed the day with momentum following the extra‑inning victory.

Team Highlights (VVC Only)

• Series Split
• 10‑inning extra‑inning win
• Six‑run 5th inning in Game 1
• Three runs in the 10th inning
• Complete‑game 10‑inning pitching effort
• Multiple clutch RBI performances

Looking Ahead

The Rams' ability to grind out a marathon extra‑inning win reflects the team's resilience and competitive mindset. Victor Valley will look to build on the momentum from the dramatic victory as conference play continues.

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.

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