BUDA, TX — The Temple Tem-Cats wrapped up the tournament chapter of their season on a high note Saturday morning, battling through early deficits to defeat the Lehman High School Lobos 6-2. The victory at Lehman High School brings Temple’s non-district record to a balanced 8-8-1 as they prepare for the rigors of league play.

Early Back-and-Forth

Lehman struck first in the opening frame, capitalizing on a Temple error to take a 1-0 lead. The Tem-Cats responded quickly in the top of the second when Chiyna Granderson laced a single to center field, driving in a run to knot the score at 1-1.

The seesaw battle continued in the bottom of the second as Lehman’s Mia Mendoza regained the lead for the Lobos with an RBI single. However, that 2-1 advantage would be the last time the home team saw the lead.

Taking Control

Temple’s offense found its spark in the third inning. Pressuring the Lobo defense, the Tem-Cats forced an error that allowed two runs to cross the plate, jumping ahead 3-2.

In the fourth, Temple slammed the door shut with a three-run outburst. Chiyna Granderson showcased her speed, padding the lead by stealing home, while Ava Machuca followed up with a productive RBI groundout. Brenna Thomas capped the rally with a stinging RBI double to push the lead to 6-2.

Dominance in the Circle

Brenna Thomas earned the win with a gritty performance in the circle. Over four innings of work, Thomas surrendered only two hits and two unearned runs. She showcased her ability to escape jams, finishing with four strikeouts and four walks.

Offensively, Thomas and Granderson were the catalysts, each recording two hits. Thomas finished a perfect 2-for-2 with two doubles and an RBI, while Granderson went 2-for-2 with a double and an RBI of her own. Other contributors included Sha'Kyhria Freeman and Madyson Combs, who both tallied hits and scored runs. On the defensive side, the Tem-Cats flashed the leather when it counted, turning one double play to stifle a Lehman rally.

Game Summary

The final box score reflected Temple's offensive pressure despite some defensive miscues. The Tem-Cats finished with 6 runs on 7 hits and 5 errors, while the Lobos were held to 2 runs on just 2 hits and 1 error.

Looking Ahead: District 12-6A Opener

With the tournament circuit now in the rearview mirror, the Tem-Cats turn their focus to the games that matter most.

Temple will return home to the friendly confines of Tem-Cat Field on March 3 to host Killeen Shoemaker. This matchup marks both their first home game of the season and the critical District 12-6A opener. First pitch is set for 7:00 PM, ushering in a new level of intensity as the race for the postseason officially begins.