Dealing with a myriad of items, from weather to player health, the Marian University Ancilla Softball team was back in action Tuesday after nearly a week off and the unfortunate postponement of three double-headers. The Chargers returned to the field to finally take on Lake Michigan College in an event that had been rescheduled a couple of times. While it was good to be back out in the sun, the ladies found it difficult to get aboard safely, managing just three baserunners between the two games. The Redhawks took Game-1 15-0 and Game-2 10-1, both in five innings. Below is a quick glance at some highlights from Tuesday's action.
Game-1 (L 15-0, 5 innings): The Chargers faced maybe the most impressive pitching performance they've seen all season, as Lake Michigan's Karly Manning did not allow an MUAC runner the entire game. She pitched all 5.0 innings, not allowing a hit or a walk, and she struck out 12 of the 15 batters she saw. Charger Freshman pitcher Samantha Hoffman (1-5) was again credited with the loss, but she also made it all 5.0 innings and struck out 5 batters along the way, which tied a season high.
Game-2 (L 10-1, 5 innings): The second game of the afternoon saw the Chargers make solid contact with the ball much of the day, but unfortunately a lot of those were hit right at Redhawk defenders, who also made several nice plays in the field. Speaking of which, Charger Freshman shortstop Alyssa Mulbarger made a nice double play of her own, as she jumped to catch a line drive, then fired a throw to Samantha Hoffman at first base for the second out. The Chargers tried to rally in the bottom of the 5th inning, as Hoffman led off with a single and Freshman Samantha Perry followed with a single of her own. Freshman Justice Billingsley hit into a fielder's choice in which Perry was called out, but Hoffman advanced to third base. Freshman Keely Qualkenbush then grounded out to second base, however, Hoffman was able to cross home plate safely on the play, accounting for the Chargers' lone run on the day. Billingsley (0-3) was given the loss, but like Hoffman in the first game, she managed to go all 5.0 innings in the pitching circle.
As of now, due to additional rescheduling, the Marian Ancilla Softball team is expected to next take the field this Saturday when they travel to Jackson College. Please stay tuned to our 'X' feed (formerly known as Twitter) for daily updates throughout the remainder of the season!!
