Softball: Don’t call it an upset; Momma said knock Simi Valley out

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When the season ended, Valencia was ranked No. 4 in The Times’ rankings. Simi Valley was No. 7 in those same rankings.

Even though Simi Valley, with its previously unbeaten record, was seeded No. 1 for the Southern Section-Toyota Division I playoffs and recently ascended to the nation’s top spot in the StudentSports.com’s rankings, the Pioneers were not that much better than Valencia-- at least, that’s what I’m told.

With both of these teams being so evenly matched, Valencia’s 3-0 victory Saturday at Barber Park in Irvine can hardly be considered an upset. If anything, it’s vindication for the now two-time champions for ever being doubted. (For the record, they were not doubted by my colleague Martin Henderson, who told me before the game that he thought Valencia would win.)

So, having said all of that, using my best LL Cool J impersonation, don’t call this an upset. Momma said knock you out.

-- Jaime Cardenas