CHICO, Calif. – Despite their postseason hopes being officially eliminated, Chico State softball showed no signs of slowing down, sweeping No. 13 Cal State East Bay in Friday's doubleheader at Wildcat Softball Field.
With wins by CSU Monterey Bay on Friday, the final spots for the 2026 CCAA Tournament were secured, ending Chico State's chances of qualifying. Still, the Wildcats responded with resilience, earning two impressive wins over a nationally ranked opponent to move to 12-18 in conference play.
Amelie Valdez played a pivotal role in both victories, earning two wins on the day. She tossed a complete-game shutout in the opener and later came in to close out an extra-innings win in Game Two, improving to 10-9 on the season. Bella Tavares also delivered a strong outing, striking out five and allowing just one walk over eight innings before handing the ball to Valdez.
Game 1: Chico State 1, CSUEB 0
Hannah Levy delivered the decisive moment in the opener, singling to center field to bring home Lindsay Hubbard for the game's only run.
The Wildcats backed the pitching staff with a flawless defensive performance, committing no errors against the Pioneers.
Mia Santos recorded Chico State's only multi-hit effort, going 2-for-3 at the plate, while Valdez secured her third shutout of the season in the circle.
Game 2: Chico State 4, CSUEB 3 (9 inn.)
The second game provided even more drama. Chico State carried a two-run lead into the final inning, but a defensive miscue allowed the Pioneers to tie the game and force extra innings.
Tavares kept the Wildcats in control for much of the contest, striking out five and limiting baserunners throughout her outing.
Senior Brianna Swihart led the offense in Game Two, going 3-for-5 with an RBI. Kennedy Gustin, Aiyana Curry and Itzell De Los Rios also contributed key runs.
De Los Rios ultimately sparked the game-winning play, applying pressure on the basepaths that forced a defensive mistake between second and third, allowing Ali Lewis to score the winning run.
Chico State will close out the season Saturday with Senior Day festivities. First pitch is scheduled for noon at Wildcat Softball Field, with pregame recognition beginning at 11:30 a.m.
