ELSAH, IL - The Principia Softball team hosted the Blackburn Beavers for a non-conference doubleheader on Saturday. This was only the second day the young Panthers have played in a game, so there is a still a learning curve for many of Principia's players who haven't played softball before. Despite the lopsided losses, freshman captain
Avery Cobb had quite the performance in game two.
Over five innings, Cobb struck out ten Beavers, which puts her second all-time for strikeouts in a game in Principia softball history. Had the game not ended after five innings due to the ten-run mercy rule, she may have broken Noelle Shoemake's Principia record of 13 (in six innings back in 2016). Only five of Blackburn's 16 runs against Cobb were earned (due to Panther fielding errors), so the game score does not reflect how well she pitched. Cobb also went 3-3 at the plate in game two to cap off an impressive performance for the freshman from Ohio.
Junior
Heather Savoye joined the team, and her softball experience was a helpful addition with fellow junior
Gracie Paul out of the lineup due to injury. Over both games, Savoye tallied three hits and was the new outfield anchor in centerfield. Junior
Kelsie Huss also stepped up to fill in for Paul at shortstop in game one and then catcher in game two. Senior captain
Rosie Paul added the only other Panther hit on the day, and got to play some second base (as she is usually the designated hitter).
Coach
Ned Crecelius said afterwards: "While we came up short on the scoreboard in our second outing of the season, the improvements from the first outing were most apparent. If we can warm up the bats in the second half of the lineup and continue to improve defensively behind the strong pitching of Cobb and
Victoria Columbus, the season will continue to be one of substance, growth, and grace. Sportsmanship, team comradery, and joy were on display again today."
Up Next: The Panthers will play another home doubleheader on Tuesday at 5 pm when they host Eureka College for their conference opener.
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