New Dons fight to stay in the game

   Opening day usually means sunshine, green grass and hope of a winning season. But this year it meant muddy fields, rain drops and storm clouds, symbolic of Santa Ana's 13-25-1 record last year.

   But soon the skies cleared, and the Dons appeared ready to begin a new season. Led by pitcher Katlyn Harp and first year Head Coach Jessica Rapoza, Santa Ana matched their best five game start since 2004 going 4-0-1.

   After a hot start, the offense struggled to put up runs. At one point the Dons went 19 innings without scoring a run, contributing to a 1-4 record in the last five games. In games against Fullerton and East L.A. College, the Dons combined for eight hits and no runs.

   Despite the lack of offense, Harp believes the team will keep improving.

   Harp and outfielder Nicole Mendoza are the lone returners and will mentor a group of new faces like Sarah Steinbeck, outfielder Nicole Warnick and pitcher Lindsay Parks.

   Steinbeck has been a solid player so far with her bat leading the team in hits, triples and runs scored.

   Pitching has become the Dons strongest point as the four throwers have combined for a 2.16 ERA, 57 strikeouts, 28 walks, allowing 29 runs with eight of those unearned.

   "I knew she was a fighter. I knew she's going to go out here and get those outs," Steinbeck said about Harp.

   "It means a lot knowing they have my back. I know they are going to score runs," Harp said.

   "I am really confident in Parks," said Harp. "She knows how to come in and improve."

   Parks closed out a win against Golden West College in a game where she faced a bases- loaded situation in the seventh inning with a three run lead.

   "My heart was racing," Parks said. "I just had to zone everything out."

   Despite some inconsistencies the Dons have shown toughness from their young group of players. Freshman Taylor Martin drove in five runs in a game against Southwestern College.

   Next, the Dons will play host rival Santiago Canyon College on Wednesday.