Pace makers

DONS’ SOFTBALL PROFILE: Dons’ trio runs after three school records.

Sophomore Alexandra Perkins is like a female version of Rickey Henderson. She’s the best in the business.

“I don’t think any catcher out there can throw me out,” Perkins said.

The utility fielder has set a new school record, stealing 28 bases without getting caught. The last time she was thrown out while attempting a stolen base, Josh Hamilton played for the Texas Rangers.

Her assault on the record books continues, three away from breaking a 17-year-old wall of 31 stolen bases in a single season.

“Stealing bases is the ultimate competitive thing,” Perkins said.

A pair of sluggers, sophomore pitcher Devon Rodriguez and freshman first baseman Sabrina Perez have teamed with Perkins to make a big impact on SAC softball’s all-time totals.

So far the stats aren’t empty, as the Dons marched on a five-game winning streak before falling Wednesday on the road against powerhouse Riverside College, 4-2.

While Perez and Rodriguez are tied for third in the Orange Empire Conference leader boards, Perkins runs alone. Her 28 total steals leads the OEC and is 11 more than second place outfielder Jordan Diaz of Santiago Canyon College.

Rodriguez and Perez, on the other hand, are five home runs away from the conference leaders. RCC infielders Natalie Barrios and Katherine Macias have 13 apiece.

The Dons have relied on power, and on multi-homer games, to carry the team above .500 throughout the season.

Perez and Rodriguez have anchored an offense that has hit 28 home runs and driven in 186 runs, while slugging .535.

“I am a power hitter,” Rodriguez said.

As the team’s leadoff hitter Perkins is frequently on base, posting a .468 OBP. She benefits from the offensive muscle, which has led to her team high of 32 runs scored.

Perez, who embodies the humility with which the three have handled their season, also appreciates efficiency: “The best part about hitting a home run is not having to sprint through first base.”