Cougars Open 2026 with Road Sweep and Hard-Fought Split to Finish 2–2 on Opening Weekend

Lassen Softball Opens 2026 Season with Doubleheader Sweep at Sacramento City

The Lassen College softball team opened the 2026 season in impressive fashion on January 30, sweeping Sacramento City College on the road to start the year 2–0. In the opener, the Cougars jumped out early with two runs in the first and two more in the third on their way to a 4–2 victory. Kehaulani Tambaoan-Kaeo and Jhan’z Kaawa-Kawai each collected two hits and a double, while Lilinoe Kuhaulua-Leong drove in two key runs. In the circle, Lauren Emery went the distance, scattering eight hits and allowing just two earned runs while striking out three to secure the complete-game win.

Game two showcased the Cougars’ offensive firepower as Lassen pounded out 17 hits in a 13–8 win. After falling behind 6–3 early, Lassen erupted with five runs in the fourth inning and continued to add insurance late. Taylor Lauritsen led the charge with a perfect 4-for-4 performance, while Tristyn Lenz drove in three runs and Nadia Velazquez tripled as part of a three-hit day. Abby Lynn battled through seven innings in the circle to earn the win as the Cougars demonstrated resilience, depth, and explosive offensive potential in their opening-day sweep.

Cougars Split at Cosumnes River to Close Opening Weekend

Lassen wrapped up opening weekend on January 31 at Cosumnes River College, finishing the four-game stretch with a 2–2 record. In a tightly contested first game, the Cougars held a 1–0 lead into the seventh inning behind a strong outing from Lauren Emery, who allowed just two runs over 6.2 innings. Lilly Fanene tripled and scored, and Nadia Velazquez drove in Lassen’s lone run, but Cosumnes River pushed across two runs in the bottom of the seventh to edge the Cougars 2–1.

In the finale, Lassen fell 6–1 despite competitive stretches throughout the game. Lilly Fanene doubled and scored the Cougars’ only run, while Jenna Ku and Taylor Lauritsen each added hits. Cosumnes River capitalized on a four-run third inning to create separation, but Abby Lynn provided three scoreless innings of relief to steady the circle. Despite the split, Lassen showed strong pitching performances and flashes of offensive explosiveness during opening weekend, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting 2026 season.