Del Oro bats silenced by one of nation's top recruits

When one of the state's most dangerous lineups squared off against one of the nation's top pitchers, the margin for error was always going to be slim. On Monday, Destiny Christian Academy's Ayla Tuua proved just how slim. Tuua, an LSU commit and consensus top-10 national recruit in the class of 2026, pitched a shutout to lead the Lions past defending NorCal-champion Del Oro 3-0 at Folsom Lake College. Tuua pitched a four-hitter, striking out nine and walking one while keeping the potent Golden Eagles lineup from ever finding a breakthrough. Destiny Christian seized control in the top of the first inning, as Tuua helped her cause with a two-run double, later scoring on a sacrifice to make it 3-0. That was all the run support she would need. Still, Del Oro didn't back down. The Golden Eagles put seven runners on base and had their chances but stranded six in scoring position in the first four innings. Tuua seemingly got better as the Golden Eagles threatened. Del Oro coach Sean Erickson was impressed with his team's approach, noting sometimes you have to tip your cap to a player who is taking over a game. "We were happy to send 28 batters to the plate, seven beyond the minimum," Erickson said. "We feel like with our lineup, that gives us a chance, especially against a wonderful thrower like that." Caelyn Campos, Nancy Barberio, Kate Brown and Presley Brening each recorded a hit for Del Oro, but Tuua consistently worked out of trouble, mixing command and movement to keep the Eagles off balance. "I was impressed with our kids to go up against Ayla," Erickson said. "She's an amazing young lady … just so dynamic at what she does. For us to have seven baserunners, I feel like it gives us a chance to score a run. Obviously, we didn't do that, but I like the cohesiveness." Del Oro's pitching staff matched that effort after a rocky start. Mikayla Finn surrendered three runs in the first inning but settled in before giving way to two freshmen, who combined for four scoreless innings in relief. Katharine Popovski's introduction in relief was anything but gentle, as she took a line drive off the thigh from Tuua to put runners on the corners with no outs. Moments later she was tested again, this time snagging a scorching liner and firing to third to turn a double play, helping her escape the jam without damage. "You look at the scoreboard after 21 outs, and it's a 3-0 game," Erickson said, giving his team praise for settling in after a frustrating first inning. "I think it's something to be proud of." For Erickson, the night served less as a setback and more as a measuring stick. "This is a game to be proud of," he said. "You just went up against the best. Now we're going to face some really good competition this week, and I think they're confident to get it done." Del Oro (3-3, 2-1 SFL) will look to bounce back Wednesday against Davis in Sierra Foothill League play.