Offensive firepower continued to carry the Long Beach State softball team in another up-and-down weekend, this time in the Easton Desert Classic in Las Vegas.
The 49ers improved to 6-4 on the season after splitting double-headers on Friday and Saturday. The 49ers then had to hold off a late rally from UNLV (2-7) on Sunday to secure a winning record.
LBSU started its weekend with a 10-8 loss to Ohio State on Friday but quickly rebounded to beat Utah Valley by a score of 8-1 later that day. The 49ers then defeated UTEP 5-4 on Saturday before falling to Utah, 11-3. They closed out the weekend by defeating tournament host UNLV, 7-6.
In what’s been a common theme this season, the 49ers’ offense more than made up for inconsistent starting pitching. In their three wins, the 49ers scored 20 runs. Even in their two losses, the 49ers still a managed to score 11 runs; albeit eight of them coming against Ohio State (4-6).
Junior Ashley Holmes continued her terrific offensive start. Holmes, who was the team-leader in home runs going into the tournament, added three more home runs over the weekend.
The 49ers currently have six starters with a batting average of at least .350, including reigning Big West Player of the Year Shayna Kimbrough.
An offense that was so lethal last year continues to display its versatility, and how it can beat an opponent with different players.
Pitcher Erin Jones-Wesley showed signs of getting out of her early season funk. The senior was outstanding in an 8-1 victory against Utah Valley (0-10), tossing seven innings of one-run with 11 strikeouts.
The 49ers’ next tournament will prove to be their biggest challenge yet. The team will travel to Palms Springs for Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic, where they’ll face the no. 21 team in the nation, Louisiana State.