LAKEPORT >> Through their first two games of the season, the young Clear Lake Cardinals of 2017 are looking pretty much like the old Clear Lake Cardinals of 2016.
Clear Lake (2-0) recorded its second lopsided victory in as many days on Thursday, beating the El Molino Lions 13-3 in a game called in the bottom of the fifth inning because of the 10-run rule. On Wednesday the Cardinals opened their season schedule with a 20-2 dismantling of the Healdsburg Greyhounds.
“We came out a little bit flat in the first couple of innings,” Clear Lake coach Doug Wingler said of the 2-0 lead the Cardinals spotted the Lions in the top of the first inning. “But we were able to utilize our speed, really put some pressure on them, and then we settled in.
“The one thing I like about this group is they compete,” Winger added.
The Cardinals erupted for five runs in the bottom of the third inning to push in front to stay. They added four more runs in the fourth and then brought the game to an early conclusion with four runs in the fifth, all with just one out in the inning.
Winning pitcher Lilli Hill combined with reliever Kortnie Reynolds on a four-hitter. Hill worked the first four innings for her second victory in as many days, striking out three and walking one. She was backed by an error-free defense.
“One error in two games is pretty good,” Wingler said.
Lila Ogden’s play at third base was particularly impressive, according to Winger.
“Lila did an excellent job. She made quite a few plays,” Wingler said.
Regina Faalelea went 3-for-3 with a triple and two RBIs as the Cardinals pounded out 13 hits.
“We swung the bats really, really well today,” Wingler said.
Sara Ogden went 2-for-2 with a double and two RBIs, Madi Ferguson went 2-for-3 with a double and a RBI, and Shaelyn McIntire went 2-for-3. Hill, Skye Bruch and Shyanne Chapin also knocked in runs.
After taking part in a scrimmage Saturday in Santa Rosa, the Cardinals play their next official game Tuesday in Ukiah before returning home March 16 to take on Upper Lake.
