It’s a Moving Experience as LaPier, Barons Beat No. 7 Aztecs

Nicole LaPier, a freshman pitcher at Fountain Valley who has forsaken velocity for movement, continued her winning ways on Thursday. LaPier and the second-ranked Barons seized control of the Sunset League race with a 1-0 victory over No. 7 Esperanza.

Fountain Valley won its 14th consecutive game as LaPier out-dueled Aztec sophomore Kristen Dedmon (12-7), who gave up three hits. With a two-game lead and four games to play, the Barons (21-5, 6-0) practically assured themselves a share of the league title. Esperanza (16-5-1, 4-2) remained in second place.

“It doesn’t really matter how much speed you have, it depends on movement,” said LaPier, who gave up four hits and struck out seven. “I have a lot of defense behind me.”

Center fielder Jenny Doezie made a diving catch that prevented Esperanza from having a big fourth inning. After Doezie’s catch, LaPier gave up a walk and a single. Esperanza stranded six runners.

Doezie scored Fountain Valley’s run in the first. She walked, stole second base, executed a delayed steal of third after Kirin Kumar’s infield single and scored on Kristin Crowder’s bouncer to third.