November 5, 2024

OC Sports Zone: Community First

Irvine’s softball team, ranked No. 2 in CIF Division 5, starts out season with 5-3 record

Among Irvine’s top players are from left Katie Liu, Sienna Porter, Harper Vandermolen and Hyli DelosSantos. (Photo courtesy Irvine softball).

Irvine High School’s softball team, coached by Jim Knapp, is looking for a successful season in the Pacific Coast League.

The Vaqueros, 5-3 overall, have been ranked No. 2 in the CIF Division 5 rankings but Knapp said he wasn’t aware of that and hasn’t paid too much attention to polls.

“I have a young team, starting two freshmen, three sophomores, three juniors and one senior,” Knapp said.

Two freshmen have led the way on offense.  

Katie Liu started out batting .541 and Harper Vandermolen .480 with three home runs and 18 RBI.

“Juniors Hyli DelosSantos and Sienna Porter will handle the pitching duties and both are big contributors on offense with Porter hitting  .434 with three home runs and DelosSantos at .333 with one home run,” Knapp added.

Other team members include Audrey Taylor, Jade DelosSantos, Priscilla Sanchez, Nicole Sanchez, Deneah Romero, Annie Schwarzbart, Shelby Crowe, Abby Sasaki, Reese Villanueva and Evelyn Shen.

Irvine is scheduled to host Northwood Tuesday in a Pacific Coast League game.

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