San Diego’s softball team lost to No. 20 Grand Canyon University in the USD/SDSU Co-Host Tournament on Friday evening at the Reggie Smith Softball Complex. The final score was 5-2 in favor of Grand Canyon, who remains undefeated with a 25-0 record.
Grand Canyon, ranked among the top 25 programs nationally, entered the game at 24-0 and extended their winning streak after overcoming a challenge from San Diego. The Toreros briefly led in the fifth inning before Grand Canyon scored four runs in the sixth to secure the win.
San Diego managed nine hits during the game. Mallory Axline led offensively, going 2-for-4 and driving in both of San Diego’s runs. Michelle Delgado contributed two hits and scored once, while Taylor Johnson and Abrielle Diaz each had two hits as well. After tying the game in the fourth inning, San Diego took a short-lived lead in the fifth before Grand Canyon responded decisively.
Kaitlyn Bartlow pitched a complete game for San Diego, allowing ten hits and seven walks while striking out four batters over seven innings. Despite taking the loss, she kept her team competitive until Grand Canyon’s rally in the sixth inning.
Maggie Place earned the win for Grand Canyon by pitching 2.1 scoreless innings in relief.
San Diego will play Princeton next at 12:30 PM on Saturday at the Reggie Smith Softball Complex.
