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Gustine Reds face rough patch as season winds down
sports

The Gustine Reds softball team has hit a tough streak, losing four consecutive games and dropping their season record to 7-14. After a high-scoring 13-run victory recently, the Reds have struggled to maintain momentum, particularly in their matchups last week.

On Thursday, Gustine fell 16-1 to the Pacheco Panthers, who avenged their February 2024 loss to the Reds in dominating fashion. This defeat marked the start of a difficult stretch for the team, which has now lost three of its last four contests and seen its record slip to 7-11.

The Reds continued to face challenges against the Millennium Falcons and the Pitman Pride, losing back-to-back games with identical 14-4 scores. Gustine's struggles compounded on Friday with a crushing 16-0 defeat to the Ripon Indians. That game was cut short after three innings due to the mercy rule, leaving the Reds with their fourth consecutive loss and a 5-6 league record, placing them in fifth position.

The team has two games remaining in their schedule. They will travel to Stone Ridge Christian on April 30, facing a team with an 8-5 overall record and 6-3 in league play. The Reds' last encounter with Stone Ridge, on April 2, ended in an 18-5 loss. Gustine will conclude the season at home against Waterford on May 7. Waterford, currently winless at 0-13 overall and 0-10 in league play, previously fell 18-5 to the Reds on April 9.

Despite their struggles, the Gustine Reds continue to push forward, aiming to end their season on a high note. The team has shown resilience throughout the year, but with an average of 11.9 runs allowed per game, tightening up their defense will be key to finishing strong.