SMCC Softball, Montalvo Collect First Victory of 2024

PHOENIX ---

The South Mountain Community College softball team (1-0) defeated Arizona Christian University 10-3 on Monday, Feb. 12, in its first game of the 2024 season. Sophomore Mia Franco went 3 for 3 with two runs, three RBIs, and a double and freshman Nadia Rascon also doubled as SMCC first-year head coach Kelley Montalvo recorded her first win as the Cougars' skipper. 

SMCC jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first inning. After the first four batters reached safely, a fielder's choice RBI by Sabrina Erran set up a two-run double by Franco. The Cougars tacked on a fifth run on an ACU error that allowed Franco to score. 

In the third, Franco started the frame with a single and moved to second after sophomore Vanessa Philpot drew a walk. Freshman Brianna Risley then drew another walk to load the bases, and with one out, Dionna Leanio singled to bring home Philpot. 

SMCC manufactured a run in the fourth after sophomore Sarah Potter reached on an error. Azlynn Madrid pinch-ran for Potter and quickly stole second base. With two outs, she scored on an RBI single from Franco, and freshman Taylor Christensen recorded her first career hit and RBI as she brought Franco home later in the frame. 

In the seventh, a pitch hit Madrid, and Michelle Balcazar singled to put two runners on base with no outs. With one down, Victoria Garza drove home Madrid and Balcazar with an RBI single.

Sophomore Mykenzie Flores started the game for SMCC and went 3.0 innings with two hits, two strikeouts, and one earned run. Sophomore Adenira Marquez tossed the final 4.0 innings to pick up her first win of the season. She finished with two strikeouts, two walks, and two earned runs.