Pintos Power: Moriarty Explodes for 25 Runs in Shutout Win Over Highland

The Moriarty Pintos wasted no time asserting their dominance on the road Monday, erupting for 16 runs in the first inning on their way to a 25-0 shutout victory over the Highland Hornets.

The offensive explosion, paired with a dominant performance in the circle by freshman Bella Maldonado, pushed Moriarty to a perfect 3-0 start to the season.

“Hit the ball, catch the ball, score more runs,” said Moriarty coach Amy Mowrer. “Get up on them early. Defense wins games.”

The Pintos did exactly that, punishing Highland for 13 errors and racking up 16 hits in the shortened three-inning contest. Kristina Means led the charge at the plate, going 3-for-4 with three RBIs and a double. Peyton Rutz added two hits and three RBIs, while Emma Rodriguez and Caroline Gruen each contributed doubles to the lopsided box score.

On the rubber, Maldonado was nearly untouchable. The freshman earned the win, striking out seven batters and allowing just one hit over three scoreless innings. She didn’t issue a single walk, throwing 44 pitches to face just 11 batters.

Mowrer noted that the team’s early success is a significant confidence booster, especially after a challenging preseason.

“It’s a lot for them,” Mowrer said. “We went to the Rio Rancho varsity scrimmages at the end of February and kind of got our butts whipped. It was good for them to get the win and know that they can be the team on the other side.”

Mowrer, in her first year leading the varsity program after three years as the JV coach, highlighted the depth of her pitching staff, which includes Rodriguez and Rutz behind Maldonado. She also emphasized the growth of a roster that features seniors and players who have been with the program since the eighth grade.

Looking ahead, Mowrer believes this group has the potential to be a force in the district, specifically eyeing a matchup with perennial powerhouse Los Alamos.

“This team is going to be the team to do it,” Mowrer said. “We’ve talked a lot about keeping their heads in the game. The goal is to make practice harder than the games so that when you get to those hard games, you’re used to it.”

Moriarty will look to maintain its momentum next weekend at the Santa Fe Indian School tournament before hosting its own tournament at the end of March. District play is scheduled to begin April 1.