Rodriguez shines as Mexico overpower Ireland

Karina Rodriguez led the offensive efforts of Mexico, powering the side to a 9-0 victory over Ireland, completing their doubleheader sweep and securing their place in the Play-Offs of the WBSC U-18 Women’s Softball World Cup Group C at The Village in Dallas, USA, on Sunday.

Mexico took control of the game in the first inning, as the first five batters reached base. Rodriguez hit an RBI single to bring home the first run, followed by a two-run ground-rule double from Lilianna Acosta, putting Mexico ahead 3-0. Ireland’s Cameron Kelly managed to stop the bleeding by catching a line-drive comebacker and turning it into a double play to end the inning.

In the bottom of the second inning, Mexico extended their lead to 5-0. Rodriguez continued her strong showing with a run-producing double, her second RBI of the game, and Ana Paula Oquita added another with a sacrifice fly.

Mexico’s offence surged again in the fourth inning, as they scored four runs on three hits to increase their lead to 9-0. A combination of solid hitting and Ireland's inability to stem the flow of runs brought Mexico within three outs of victory via the run-ahead rule.

Abril Gomez pitched a complete game from the circle, keeping Ireland scoreless and securing the 9-0 win. Mexico’s strong offensive showing and Gomez’s command in the circle ensured their comfortable progression to the Play-Offs.