IRVINE, Calif. - After last year's ill-timed weather in Southern California caused the Wildcats to back out of the Concordia Kickoff Classic, the Chico State softball team was ready to make their comeback to the Irvine tournament. They opened up their season with two impressive showings against non-conference opponents Central Washington (GNAC) and Azusa Pacific (PacWest).
Game 1 vs Central Washington
Pitcher Amelie Valdez led the 'Cats with a spectacular performance, throwing a complete game shutout. She recorded eight strikeouts over 7 innings, setting a high standard for the rest of the season. The junior did not walk a single batter in her first start of the season, showcasing her experience from last season and the work she has put in during the offseason.
Last spring these two programs met in Turlock at the Tournament of Champions, with CWU taking a 5-4 win over Chico State, but the Wildcats got their revenge earlier into the season.
The offensive support came strong as well, with Kennedy Gustin scoring the opening run followed by impactful hits from teammates. Ali Lewis made significant contributions by slamming a solo home run and securing an RBI, while Aiyana Curry drove in two crucial runs on a groundout in the third inning. Kennedy Gustin led off in her first start with the Wildcats, recording the first hit of the game and the first hit of her 'Cats career.
The game's key moments included Valdez's overwhelming presence on the mound and Lewis's second-inning homer, her third of her career.
Game 2 vs Azusa Pacific
Stepping in to pitch in her first collegiate game of her career, Kylie Loertscher was a solid starter for the Wildcats in their second game of the day. The freshman struck out 5 batters and refused to walk a batter at the plate. Chloe Swenson tagged in to close out the game, striking out one and earning the save as the 'Cats hang on to the 3-2 win. Azusa Pacific is slated to finish 2nd in the PacWest behind CUI, a strong win for a Chico State program that is looking to gain early traction.
The 'Cats were unable to outhit the Cougars, but it made the difference to ring in the hits when they really mattered. Hannah Levy knocked home two of her teammates with a single up the middle in the third inning, taking the single run lead.
APU earned a run back in the sixth inning but their lead did not last long when a fielding error by the Cougars' shortstop allowed Lilly Cante to reach first and Italia Abrenica across home plate for the winning run.
Kennedy Gustin, Aiyana Curry, Lauren Carbajal and Itzell De Los Rios all notched hits in the second win of the day. Chico State was one of three CCAA programs to pick up two wins on the opening day of the 2025 season.
The Wildcats will face off against Biola in the morning at 10:30 a.m., followed by a game under the lights against Western Oregon at 6 p.m. in Irvine.
