Hawks Sweep Merced in Commanding Doubleheader Performance

The Hawks put together a complete day on Friday January 30, using timely offense, strong pitching, and steady defense to earn a doubleheader sweep over Merced with wins of 8–4 and 6–0.

Game 1: Cosumnes River 8, Merced 4
Merced jumped out to an early lead in the top of the first, scoring on a sacrifice fly, but the Hawks quickly responded and seized momentum in the second inning. Cosumnes River capitalized on defensive miscues, plating two unearned runs to take a 2–1 lead. The Hawks continued to apply pressure in the third inning, erupting for three runs to extend the advantage. RBI hits from Nina Najafizadeh and a sacrifice fly from Emily Azemar highlighted the inning, while aggressive baserunning and situational hitting kept Merced on its heels.

The Hawks added to their lead in the fourth as Charlize Fasula delivered a run-scoring triple, followed by an RBI double from Emma Misasi, pushing the margin to 7–1. Misasi finished the game 3-for-4 with an RBI, while Najafizadeh reached base twice, drove in a run, and scored two more. Cosumnes River tacked on another run in the fifth, further cementing control of the contest.

In the circle, Xochitl Atayde delivered a steady performance, going the full seven innings. Atayde allowed six hits and four runs, only three earned, while issuing four walks and striking out four. After Merced made a late push with two runs in the seventh, the Hawks' defense held firm to secure the 8–4 win.

Game 2: Cosumnes River 6, Merced 0
The the second match of the double header showcased dominant pitching and timely execution by the Hawks. After three scoreless innings, Cosumnes River broke through in the fourth when Emily Azemar ripped a two-run double to center field, scoring Mia Ballejos and Emma Misasi.

The Hawks put the game away in the sixth inning with a four-run outburst. Kaylena Ogle drove in a run after reaching on a fielder's choice, and Xochitl Atayde followed with an RBI single. Faith Hahn also contributed with a run-scoring hit as Cosumnes River stretched the lead to 6–0.

Ogle was dominant in the circle, throwing a complete-game one-hit shutout. She faced just 24 batters, allowed one hit, walked one, and struck out four, keeping Merced's offense off balance all game long.

With the sweep, the Hawks continued to build momentum and depth on both sides of the ball, showing balanced offense and pitching strength as they move forward in their schedule.