SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The St. Francis softball team played three controlled scrimmages Saturday in preparation for the start of the regular season in two weeks.

“My philosophy is to build a very strong defensive team with good pitching,” said Co-Head Coach Al LaGiudice. “To me that is what wins championships. But we still need to hit the ball to win ball games. I have put in the defense over the last couple weeks. After today I realized it time to switch gears and work on our offense.”

The Troubadours played three timed games, ranging from regular innings to situational settings coordinated by the umpires. St. Francis was able to use three different pitchers – senior Amy Marks, sophomore Emily Ainsley and freshman Kelsea Williams. Every player saw action in at least two games. The final roster is still being determined.

“It is kinda like the (Major League) Cactus League,” said LaGiudice. “We get to see them at a couple different positions because we want to see how versatile they are in the field. It also gives our pitchers some innings against some hitters. We were fortunate to see all three girls.”

St. Francis is scheduled to play again next week with three games at Vista Del Lago. Game times are set for 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and Noon. The JV team will also be in action at Oak Ridge (10/11/1 p.m.)