The No. 1 ranked Cal State San Marcos softball team split a doubleheader against No. 8 Cal State East Bay, winning the first game 10-1 and losing the second 4-3. In the opener, offensive stars included Zoe Karam with 5 RBIs and Daleah Cardenas throwing 4.1 scoreless innings. The Cougars initially took the lead in game two with a home run from Karam, but an inside-the-park home run by East Bay's Cuellar sealed a dramatic comeback victory for the Pioneers.

By the Numbers
  • CSUSM had 12 hits in the first game and scored in every inning of the last four.
  • Zoe Karam hit 2 home runs in the series, bringing her season total to 11.
Yes, But

While the Cougars demonstrated offensive prowess in the first game, their inability to hold onto a lead in the second highlights potential vulnerabilities, particularly in late-game situations.

State of Play
  • CSUSM now holds a 27-12 all-time series record against East Bay.
  • The Cougars are 10-4 in games played at East Bay's home field.
What's Next

CSUSM will return home for their final regular-season series against Cal Poly Humboldt, starting on April 17. The series features a doubleheader that will include senior honors for four players.

Bottom Line

The Cougars must solidify their late-game strategy to maintain their top ranking and prepare for postseason play, as the split against East Bay reveals both strengths and areas needing improvement.