Clarion Softball Splits Doubleheader at California

Golden Eagles rally late but fall in Game 1, then bounce back for Game 2 win

Mar. 30, 2026 at 2:20pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and raw energy of a softball game, with players' forms and equipment dissolving into vibrant brushstrokes.Clarion's bats came alive in a high-scoring doubleheader split, showcasing the team's offensive firepower and resilience against a conference rival.California Today

The Clarion University softball team split a doubleheader against California University of Pennsylvania, dropping a close 12-11 decision in the first game before rebounding for a 10-6 victory in the second game. The Golden Eagles mounted a thrilling eight-run comeback in the seventh inning of Game 1 but ultimately fell short, while in Game 2 they erupted for six runs in the seventh to secure the win.

Why it matters

This doubleheader showcased Clarion's resilience and ability to fight back from deficits, as well as the offensive firepower of both teams. The split result keeps Clarion in the hunt in the competitive Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) West division race.

The details

In Game 1, Clarion fell behind 8-3 before staging an incredible comeback, scoring eight runs in the seventh inning to take an 11-8 lead. However, California answered with four runs in the bottom of the seventh to win 12-11. Sabi Medrano and Sophie Petrash led the Golden Eagles' offense. In Game 2, California jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the third inning, but Clarion chipped away and then exploded for six runs in the seventh to win 10-6. Sabi Medrano, Alexis Valencia, and Emily Buchleitner were key contributors for the Golden Eagles.

  • The doubleheader took place on Sunday, March 30, 2026 at Lilley Field in California, Pennsylvania.
  • Clarion staged its eight-run comeback in the seventh inning of Game 1.
  • Clarion scored six runs in the seventh inning of Game 2 to secure the victory.

The players

Sabi Medrano

A Clarion player who had two runs scored and two RBIs, including a double, in the doubleheader.

Sophie Petrash

A Clarion player who had three hits, two RBIs, and a home run, scoring twice in the doubleheader.

Kirra Davis

A California player who hit a two-RBI double in the third inning of Game 2.

Ainsley Perdicaris

The Clarion pitcher who had a strong relief outing in Game 2, pitching 3.0 innings with one earned run on five hits, one strikeout, and no walks.

Emily Buchleitner

A Clarion player who had a two-RBI single in the seventh inning of Game 2 to cap the Golden Eagles' comeback.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Clarion will look to build on this split performance as they continue their PSAC West schedule. Their next doubleheader is scheduled for April 6 at home against Slippery Rock.

The takeaway

Clarion's ability to fight back from deficits and deliver clutch hitting in the late innings of both games showcased the team's resilience and offensive firepower, which will be important as they look to climb the standings in the competitive PSAC West division.