Alyssa Esquivel is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Desert Ridge High School for AZPreps365.com.

If you were interested in seeing Desert Ridge go through their entire batting rotation in the first inning, all you had to do is attend their game against the Mesa Jackrabbits where the softball team dominated 22-0 in just four innings.

After coming into the game only scoring a single run in their last three losses, the girls were able to re-establish their focus and bounce back at home as they dominated in each inning.

“The girls have been working hard to refocus themselves like throwing strikes, producing quality pitches, and making the easy plays as well. Hardworking practice going on here,” said head coach Steve Appel.

The behind-the-scenes work from the girls was on full display tonight as the Jaguars went up 10-0 in just the first inning alone. Miscues from the Jackrabbits, including dropped pop-ups and giving up easy hits, allowed Desert Ridge to take advantage and get off to a strong start. 

“The team was very patient. Girls waited for strikes and when they got them, they hit them,” said Appel. 

Another major factor that contributed to tonight’s victory was the strong defensive play of the Jaguars. Heading into the game, defense was a strong emphasis for Desert Ridge as the team had allowed a total of 31 runs in their previous three losses. However, defense became one of their biggest strengths as they produced their second shut-out of the season. 

“I thought we definitely bounced back after playing those three games and not doing the best, but I think we all contributed as a team and overall did a really good job of playing together,” said junior baseman Hailey Reed.

One thing that has not been missing from the team this entire season is the energy seen from the players. Despite what the scoreboard says, the girls make it a priority to encourage one another to keep moving forward no matter what the outcome is. A kind of motivation that was seen from tonight’s impressive win.

“You know, I always push through and try to do my best and hype my teammates up every game. Everyone’s energy bounces off each other and that is just what makes us perform so good,” said sophomore pitcher Cierra Smith. 

The Jaguars (3-3) will travel to play the Skyline Coyotes (1-3) on March 28, in hopes of extending their winning streak and maintaining that same dominant energy from tonight's victory.