Late-Inning Rally Lifts Hawks Past Panthers in 10-9 Comeback Win

In a game that featured momentum swings, clutch hitting, and late-game drama, the Cosumnes River Hawks stormed back from a six-run deficit to defeat Sacramento City, 10-9.

Trailing 6-0 heading into the sixth inning, the Hawks' offense came alive in explosive fashion, plating six runs to tie the game before adding four more in the seventh to secure the comeback victory.

Sacramento City struck first in the second inning on a solo home run and extended its lead in the fifth with a five-run frame, highlighted by a grand slam. The Panthers added another run in the sixth to take a 7-6 advantage after Cosumnes River had briefly tied the game.

The turning point came in the top of the sixth inning when the Hawks erupted for six runs on timely hitting and disciplined at-bats. Ashley Garcia ignited the rally with a two-RBI double, while Faith Hahn delivered a clutch two-run double to tie the game at 6-6. RBI contributions from Nina Najafizadeh and Charlize Fasula kept the line moving as Cosumnes River capitalized on scoring opportunities.

With the score tied entering the seventh, the Hawks continued their offensive surge. Imani Black delivered the go-ahead blow with a two-RBI single, putting Cosumnes River ahead 8-7. The Hawks added insurance runs on a wild pitch and an RBI groundout by Emily Azemar, extending the lead to 10-7.

Sacramento City made things interesting in the bottom of the seventh with a two-run home run, but the Hawks held on to secure the 10-9 victory.

Offensively, Cosumnes River tallied 11 hits, led by a standout performance from Alexis Hoke, who went 3-for-4 with two doubles and scored twice. Garcia finished 3-for-4 with two doubles and two RBIs, while Black added two hits and a team-high two RBIs. Hahn also contributed with a key two-RBI double, and multiple Hawks recorded RBIs in a balanced team effort.

In the circle, Kaylena Ogle earned the win in relief, improving to 8-5 on the season. Ogle tossed 2.1 innings, allowing three runs while helping the Hawks navigate through a high-powered Sacramento City lineup. Xochitl Atayde started the game, throwing 4.2 innings with two strikeouts.

Cosumnes River's resilience at the plate and ability to capitalize in high-pressure moments proved to be the difference, as the Hawks completed one of their most impressive comebacks of the season.

The Hawks will look to carry this momentum into a key Big 8 Conference doubleheader against No. 6 San Joaquin Delta on Saturday, April 4.