Cougars Earn Split with Butte Behind Emery Shutout

Lassen College split a conference doubleheader with Butte College on April 22, using a dominant pitching performance and timely offense to take game one 5-0 before falling 7-1 in the nightcap. The Cougars continued to show resilience throughout conference play while receiving another standout performance from Lauren Emery in the circle.

Emery Throws Complete-Game Shutout in Opener

Lassen controlled game one from the start behind Lauren Emery, who tossed a complete-game four-hit shutout while striking out four. Emery kept Butte off balance all afternoon, allowing just one walk and never letting the Roadrunners generate consistent offensive momentum.

Offensively, the Cougars were led once again by Jhan'z Kaawa-Kawai, who blasted a three-run home run and finished with three RBIs. Nadia Velazquez sparked the offense from the leadoff spot, scoring three runs while collecting two hits and stealing three bases. Taylor Lauritsen added an RBI, while Jenna Ku and Emma Wayas each recorded hits as Lassen totaled seven hits in the win.

Lassen manufactured pressure all game long with aggressive baserunning and timely execution. The Cougars scored once in the first inning, added two more in the third, and created separation in the fifth to secure the shutout victory.

Butte Responds to Split Doubleheader

Butte answered in game two, jumping out to an early lead and never looking back in a 7-1 win over the Cougars. The Roadrunners scored twice in the opening inning and added three more in the third to build a cushion Lassen could not overcome.

Despite the loss, the Cougars continued to battle offensively, finishing with seven hits. Nadia Velazquez collected two more hits, while Lilinoe Kuhaulua-Leong, Taylor Lauritsen, Emma Wayas, Zoey Heffelfinger, and Abby Robles also contributed offensively. Heffelfinger scored Lassen’s lone run after reaching base in the fourth inning.

Ramona Ryder provided solid relief work, tossing five innings while allowing just two runs after entering in the third inning. Lassen continued to compete throughout the game, but Butte pitcher Ava Garcia limited the Cougar offense and helped the Roadrunners earn the split.