March 13, 2005

Final Stats

SUNNYVALE - Designated player Sharee Zaleski hit a fifth-inning solo home run as Arizona State defeated No. 2 California Sunday in the title game of the National Invitational Tournament at Twin Creeks Sports Complex. The Bears dropped to 22-2 on the season as Cal starter Kristina Thorson, who surrendered the leadoff, centerfield shot to Zaleski, fell to 11-1.

Cal threatened Sun Devils' starter Katie Burkhart (8-2) just once on the afternoon. Bears center fielder Kaleo Eldredge singled to lead off the bottom of the first for Cal and advanced to second on a groundout by left fielder Lindsay James. A single by second baseman Jessica Pamanian moved Eldredge to third. On the play, however, Eldredge rounded third base a little too sharply and got caught in an inning-ending rundown.

Cal collected just one hit over the next six innings off of Burkhart, who struck out nine.

The Bears return to action March 18-20 at the Capital Classic in Sacramento. Cal opens with Portland State (10 a.m.) and Northwestern (3 p.m.) on Friday.

Softball Result
National Invitational Softball Tournament
Championship Game
Twin Creeks Sports Complex; Sunnyvale, Calif.

Arizona State	000  010  0  -  1 3 1
California	000  000  0  -  0 3 1
Burkhart and Knabe; Thorson, Anderson (6) and Woods
W - Burkhart (8-2); L - Thorson (11-1)
2B - Caron; HR - Zaleski
Records: Cal 22-2; ASU 22-4