Valerie Long Named Wilson CCAA Pitcher of the Week
Stockton native hurls two complete-game victories over No. 16-ranked Cal State Bakersfield and Cal State Stanislaus to pick up first career “Pitcher of the Week” honor
April 12, 2004

Walnut Creek, CA -- Junior pitcher Valerie Long (Stockton, CA/St. Mary’s HS) has been named the Wilson California Collegiate Athletic Association Softball Pitcher of the Week for the week of April 5-11, it was announced by the CCAA office this afternoon.

Long was solid as she tossed two complete-game victories to lead the Toros to two of their four wins this weekend, blanking Cal State Stanislaus, 5-0, on Friday before downing No. 16-ranked Cal State Bakersfield, 5-4, the following day.

The Stockton native was dominant against CSUS, scattering six hits in shutting out the Warriors for her 10th win and fifth shutout of the season. She retired eight-consecutive CSUS batters at one point, including the side in order twice. Long did not allow a single Warrior runner to reach third base, finishing with nine strikeouts and no walks.

Against 16th-ranked Cal State Bakersfield on Satuday, Long threw her 11th complete game in picking up her 11th win of the year as the Toros rallied to post a come-from-behind 5-4 victory over the 2nd-ranked team in the West Region. She retired 13-of-15 Roadrunners at one point while fanning six to remain undefeated on the season.

For the week, Long sported a 2.00 ERA in 14 innings pitched, walked none and struck out 15 batters. Opposing batters hit just .231 against her, managing just 4 runs and 12 hits, as Long picked up her first career “Pitcher of the Week” honor.

The Toros travel to Grand Canyon and UC San Diego this weekend in key CCAA doubleheaders.