Pali High Softball Drops League Finale to Venice

By STEVE GALLUZZO | Sports Editor

There was a lot riding on last Wednesday’s Western League softball finale between  archrivals Palisades and Venice.

The Dolphins were not only seeking to avenge a 10-inning loss earlier in the season, they were also trying to gain a share of the league title and  possibly a top-five seed in the City Section Division I playoffs. Instead, they were dealt their most lopsided loss of the season and had to settle for a tie for second with Hamilton after being blanked 15-0.

Tori Raygosa, who pitched all but one inning in the Gondos’ 9-8 win at Palisades on April 9, had eight strikeouts,  allowed only two baserunners, had three RBIs and scored four times in the rematch.

Palisades (10-8) is seeded No. 11 in the 16-team bracket and travels to No. 6 Eagle Rock (14-7) in the first round today at 3 p.m. The winner will host No. 14 King-Drew or travel to No. 3 Chavez in Monday’s quarterfinals. Venice is seeded fifth and hosts Port of LA.