GALT, CA (MPG) - The Liberty Ranch Hawks and Galt Warriors share more than just a zip code:  they share friendships, neighborhoods and a mutual respect that was on full display after Monday’s crosstown softball game on April 27. When the final out was recorded, the two teams met at the plate with high fives and smiles, reminding everyone why small-town rivalries are something special. On the field, however, it was all Liberty Ranch, as the Hawks put together one of their most complete performances of the season in a 14-0 victory.

Liberty Ranch scored in each of their first four innings, capping the game with a 10-run fourth that triggered the mercy rule. The Hawks finished with 18 hits, 14 runs and a flawless defensive performance. Galt showed fight throughout, with several players making solid contact and the Warriors battling right to the end.

 

Sophomore Cruz Gregorio delivered a complete-game shutout for the Hawks.

“I thought our girls came out with tremendous focus and energy today,” said Liberty Ranch Head Coach Vince Bunac. “We’ve been preaching all season about coming out sharp from the first pitch, and the girls showed that today. When we swing the bats like that and Cruz is dealing in the circle, we’re a very tough team to beat. I’m proud of the effort from top to bottom.”

Gregorio Untouchable in the Circle

Sophomore Cruz Gregorio delivered a complete-game shutout for the ages. She threw all five innings, allowed just two hits, walked four and struck out 11 without surrendering a single earned run. Facing 20 batters and throwing 95 pitches, Gregorio held Galt to a .125 batting average and posted a 0.00 ERA: a performance that gave the Hawks’ offense all the runway it needed.

The Liberty Ranch lineup was equally impressive, posting a .643 team batting average with 18 hits, three doubles, a home run, 12 RBI and seven stolen bases. Senior Bella Granata led the way, going 3-for-4 with two runs, two RBI, a double and the game’s only home run. Junior Khali Barrantes matched her with a 3-for-4 performance, driving in three runs and stealing two bases. Freshman Gianna Farren also went 3-for-4 with two runs, two RBI and a double. Senior Xiana Juarez added two hits, two runs, an RBI and two stolen bases, while Gregorio contributed two hits and two RBI at the plate to complement her work in the circle. Freshman K. Springmeyer, sophomore M. Granata, senior Carlie Perez and junior Shelby Duarte each contributed as well, making it a true team effort from top to bottom.

 

Hawk Khali Barrantes slides into second.

For Galt, sophomore Zoey Sanchez started in the circle and gave her team every opportunity to compete, while Evianna Barrera came on in relief and retired the side without allowing a run. Senior Emily Peña and junior Rianna Mayer each collected hits for the Warriors, with Mayer drawing a walk to post a perfect 1.000 OBP.

When it was all over, the handshake line turned into something more: laughter, hugs and the kind of genuine camaraderie that reflects the close-knit community both programs call home. In a small town with two high schools, the competition on the field only makes the friendships off of it stronger.