Embry-Riddle's bats struggled in California as the Eagles dropped two games at Hope International with the Royals winning the first game 4-1 and the second 1-0.

Game 1

Game Highlights:

• First Inning Surge: The Eagles took an early lead in the first inning. Leah Salas reached first on an error by the Royals' shortstop, followed by a single from Autumn Sulusi that advanced Salas to second. Jade Bayless then popped up to center field, allowing Salas to advance to third. Kealey Myhre's single to shortstop brought Salas home, giving the Eagles a 1-0 lead.

• Defensive Efforts: Pitcher Vanessa Brink delivered a solid performance, striking out eight batters over six innings. Despite allowing ten hits, Brink managed to keep the Royals scoreless in five of the seven innings.

• Third Inning Challenge: The Royals capitalized in the third inning, scoring all four of their runs. 

• Offensive Struggles: The Eagles struggled to regain their momentum after the first inning. They managed only four hits throughout the game, with Camille Graham's double in the seventh inning being a notable highlight. However, the Eagles were unable to convert these opportunities into runs.

• Final Push: In the seventh inning, the Eagles showed signs of a comeback. Graham doubled to center field, but subsequent strikeouts and a fielder's choice ended the game with the Eagles unable to close the gap.

Key Players:

• K. Myhre: Myhre was instrumental in the Eagles' early lead, driving in the only run for Embry-Riddle.
• V. Brink: Despite the loss, Brink's pitching was a standout, with eight strikeouts and only one walk over six innings.
• C. Graham: Graham's double in the seventh inning was a highlight in an otherwise challenging offensive game for the Eagles.

Game 2

Game Highlights:

• Pitching Duel: The game was marked by exceptional pitching from both teams. Embry-Riddle's Claire Streeter delivered a strong performance, pitching six innings and allowing only one earned run. Streeter struck out two batters and kept the Royals scoreless for five innings.

• Defensive Prowess: The Eagles showcased their defensive skills throughout the game. Key defensive plays included a double play initiated by Leah Salas in the first inning, preventing the Royals from scoring with bases loaded.

• Offensive Struggles: Embry-Riddle's offense faced challenges against Hope International's pitcher K. Maaske, who pitched a complete game shutout. The Eagles managed only three hits, with Salas leading the team with two singles.

• Critical Sixth Inning: The Royals scored the game's only run in the sixth inning. L. Hernandez singled to center field and later stole second base. A sacrifice bunt by S. Villanuev brought Hernandez home, giving Hope International the lead.

• Final Push: In the seventh inning, the Eagles attempted a comeback. A. Garcia reached first on an error by the Royals' shortstop, but subsequent strikeouts ended the game with the Eagles unable to score.

Key Players:

• C. Streeter: Streeter's pitching was a standout, with six innings of solid work, allowing only one earned run and striking out two batters.
• L. Salas: Salas led the Eagles' offense with two singles, demonstrating consistency at the plate.
• A. Sulusi: Sulusi contributed with a single in the sixth inning, advancing pinch runner M. Tuning to second.

The Eagles will look to regroup and bounce back in their next game. Despite the loss, the team displayed resilience and strong defensive capabilities, which will be crucial as they continue their season.

Embry-Riddle and Hope International will play another double header tomorrow with the first game beginning at 12pm.