Freshman Raquel Pineda leads Pacifica softball past Cypress in pitchers duel

Pacifica's defense shines as Pineda outduels Cypress' Chach Stamper in Crestview League matchup

Mar. 27, 2026 at 4:06am

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Freshman pitcher Raquel Pineda delivered a strong complete game performance, scattering six hits and striking out four, to lead Pacifica to a 2-1 victory over Cypress in a Crestview League softball matchup. Pacifica's defense made several key plays, including two double plays, to support Pineda's effort. Cypress took an early 1-0 lead but Pacifica rallied with two runs in the third inning to secure the win.

Why it matters

This was an important league matchup between two highly ranked Orange County softball teams. The win keeps Pacifica in contention for the Crestview League title, while Cypress suffered its first league loss. The game featured strong pitching performances and standout defensive plays, showcasing the high level of competition in the Crestview League.

The details

Freshman pitcher Raquel Pineda made her first start since March 7 and delivered an impressive complete game for Pacifica. She scattered six hits, struck out four, and didn't issue a walk after the first two innings. Pacifica's defense made several key plays, including two double plays, to support Pineda. Cypress took a 1-0 lead in the second inning when Aubrey Lopez drove in a run after being hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, but Pacifica responded with two runs in the third on a fielder's choice and a sacrifice fly.

  • The game was played on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
  • Pineda made her first start since March 7.

The players

Raquel Pineda

A freshman pitcher for Pacifica who delivered a complete game, scattering six hits and striking out four.

Chach Stamper

The junior pitcher for Cypress who scattered four hits and struck out four in the loss.

Mattea Stern

Pacifica's center fielder who drove in a run and stole two bases.

Jenna Valladares

Pacifica's freshman left fielder who made five putouts, including one near the fence in the sixth inning.

Leyla Ayres

Pacifica's senior catcher who caught two foul balls, including a sliding grab just before the backstop in the fourth inning.

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What they’re saying

“It feels real good to come back and get a win. It's really important for us (to bounce back) because if we want to get first or win the league or be up there, we have to keep winning. We can't fall down early like that.”

— Mattea Stern, Pacifica center fielder

“Our defense was a pretty big factor in this game.”

— Jenna Valladares, Pacifica left fielder

“I have to have confidence in myself. (Ayres) motivates me all the time and helps me behind the plate (framing pitches).”

— Raquel Pineda, Pacifica pitcher

What’s next

Pacifica will look to build on this win as they continue their Crestview League schedule, while Cypress will aim to bounce back in their next league matchup.

The takeaway

This game showcased the high level of competition in the Crestview League, with both teams displaying strong pitching and defense. Pacifica's ability to rally and secure the win despite an early deficit demonstrates their resilience and determination to contend for the league title.