Valles, Maine West shut out Highland Park

The freshman hurler is still perfect.

And so is her Maine West softball team in the Central Suburban North.

Ariel Valles improved to 5-0 in her rookie season as the right-hander posted an 8-3 victory over visiting Highland Park (3-13, 1-2) on Tuesday afternoon.

West is now 3-0 in the conference and 7-9 overall.

Valles not only did it on the mound but also at the plate, going 3-for-4 with 2 runs, a double and RBI.

"Ariel did a real nice job," said Warriors coach Mike Murin. "Her defense really helps us in the infield. She made three or four real nice defensive plays."

West junior Nicole Mavraganis had an RBI single with two outs in the first inning to tie the game at 1-1.

Sophomore Katie Fitzgerald's 2-run double keyed a 4-run third inning where the Warriors took the lead for good.

Senior Vanessa Bagneschi also had a double for the winners, who host Deerfield on Thursday.

Senior Michelle Marlega went 3-for-4 for West with 2 RBI and a run.

Junior Kelly Farnan also had an RBI groundout for West.