Laura O. Garcia
Led by sophomore sensation Kasey Hutton and freshman Megan Craft, the Dons softball team defeated Saddleback College 3-0 Wednesday in its last regular home game, boosting their chances for a spot in the playoffs.
Hutton went 4-4 with two stolen bases to reach 50, adding to her record breaking season.
But it was Fountain Valley High School product Craft who singlehandedly dismantled the Gauchos, driving in all three runs with a two-RBI single in the second inning and another RBI single in the sixth.
Santa Ana Pitcher Phoenix Ferrell (5-3) shut down Saddleback’s offense, giving up five hits and three walks over seven innings.
This season was a breakout year for centerfielder Hutton, who leads the Orange Empire Conference in stolen bases, breaking Dons Assistant Coach Alexandra Perkins’ record of 42 in 2013.
Hutton is also fourth in the state in hits with 65.
“She is one of the most gifted athletes that I’ve ever coached at this level,” Co-Head Coach Amber Grahlman said. “It’s been a pleasure to coach her and I know she has a bright future ahead.”
Freshman Utility Raven Sapla leads the team with runs batted in and seven home runs.
The Dons end the regular season with a 24-15 record and 11-9 in conference play.
Santa Ana won four of its last five games to move into third place in the OEC.
With the victory over the Gauchos, the Dons end the season on a three-game winning streak.
As of press time, the Dons are awaiting news from the Orange Empire Conference as to whether or not they will make the Southern California Community College playoffs.
