ROXBURY CROSSING, Mass. - The Monroe University Express softball team (6-27) delivered an explosive offensive performance in Friday's doubleheader sweep over opponent Roxbury Community College (1-9), winning Game 1 by a score of 26-11 and Game 2 with an 18-3 rout. The Express combined for 44 runs on 29 hits across both contests to extend their recent momentum. Both games took place at West Roxbury Academy.

Monroe and Roxbury traded big innings early, with the score tied 8-8 heading into the third. That's when the Express exploded for eight runs, followed by 10 more in the fourth to break the game open. Leadoff hitter Ciara Harriott set the tone with five runs scored, a double, and seven stolen bases, going 2-for-3 with two walks and a hit-by-pitch.

Lauren Vuorienen had a monster game at the plate, going 4-for-5 with three runs and two RBIs, while Genesis Matias drove in four runs on two hits. Melissa Martinez also chipped in with a 2-for-3 performance, scoring four times and adding three RBIs. The team collected 16 hits and 14 walks overall.

In the circle, Martinez steadied things after a rough start, tossing three innings and allowing just two earned runs to earn her fourth win of the season. Jalyn Miner closed it out, pitching the final inning with three strikeouts.

The Express continued their offensive barrage in Game 2, scoring five runs in the first, nine in the second, and three more in the fourth to secure a run-rule victory in five innings.

Matias led the way, going 3-for-3 with two RBIs, three runs scored, and two stolen bases. Alicia Negrillo was productive at the plate, finishing 3-for-4 with a run and four stolen bases. Martinez had another strong outing, going 1-for-4 and contributing four RBIs. Judaiah Gourdine added two hits and three runs, while scoring four times and stealing four bases.

Martinez dominated in the circle, throwing a complete game five-hitter with five strikeouts and only one walk, earning the win. She kept Roxbury's offense off balance all game with precise control and timely pitch selection, allowing just one earned run over five innings. Martinez's strong outing not only secured her second win of the day but also highlighted her poise and endurance, as she effectively shut the door on any potential comeback. 

Across both games, the Express racked up a staggering 45 stolen bases, showcasing their aggressive base-running and overwhelming offensive depth.

The Express return to action tomorrow, Saturday, April 19, for a doubleheader against nationally ranked No. 7 Community College of Rhode Island at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. in Warwick, R.I.

ABOUT THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM AT MONROE UNIVERSITY
The athletic program at Monroe University encompasses a total of 31 teams competing across nine sports. There are 21 varsity and junior varsity programs, as well as club men's and women's rugby, the Monroe University marching band, and the newly added esports and men's volleyball programs, competing on the New Rochelle campus as the Mustangs (NJCAA Division I). The Monroe Express, based out of the Bronx campus, has seven teams competing at the NJCAA Division III level. 
 
For more information about the Monroe Express, please visit us at www.MonroeExpress.com or follow us on social media: Facebook (Monroe Express), Twitter/X (@MonroeExpress), Instagram (@MonroeExpress), and Threads (@MonroeExpress). Catch us on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/MonroeExpress.