Falcons Fly High: Folsom Lake Dominates Series to Advance to Round Two

The Folsom Lake College Falcons are heading to the second round of the CCCAA playoffs after a commanding 2-1 series victory over top-seeded Laney College. With a spot in the Super Regionals now secured, the Falcons will face San Joaquin Delta College on May 8 at 11 a.m., setting the stage for another high-stakes showdown.

After dropping Game 1 on the road, 6-3, the Falcons rebounded in emphatic fashion, delivering back-to-back wins including a jaw-dropping 14-1 demolition of Laney in the decisive Game 3.

Game 1, played on May 2, saw Folsom Lake struggle to find timely offense despite out-hitting Laney. Micah Kendrick's solo homer and Dylan Green's RBI double kept the Falcons close, but defensive errors and a three-run second inning by Laney proved too much to overcome.

But Game 2 was a different story. With their backs against the wall, the Falcons answered the call with a gritty 7-2 home win. Asa Martinez led the charge, scoring three runs, while Michael Ryan chipped in with two key sacrifice flies. Jarren Ekkelboom and Andrew Balentine combined to limit Laney to just two runs, showcasing a resilient pitching effort when it mattered most.

Then came Game 3 — a statement win. The Falcons exploded for 16 hits and 14 runs in a rout that silenced the home crowd in Oakland. Asa Martinez had a monster day at the plate, going 4-for-5 with a home run and 4 RBIs. Micah Kendrick added four hits, four runs, and two RBIs of his own, while Connor Barth knocked in four runs to fuel the offensive onslaught. Pitcher Rico Merlo earned the win with six solid innings, and the Falcons' defense was flawless, committing zero errors in the blowout.

It was a true team effort across the series, but Folsom Lake's relentless energy and timely hitting ultimately overwhelmed the higher-seeded Laney squad. The Falcons' momentum now rolls into Stockton, where they'll challenge Delta College in what promises to be an electric second-round clash.

First pitch is set for Thursday, May 8 at 11 a.m. Don't count the Falcons out — they've proven they can soar when it matters most.