Belles give up 2 runs in split doubleheader with Lady Jackets
By KAREN SCHAFF
Sports Writer
The Belles' softball team found its defensive niche Saturday, giving up just two runs in a split doubleheader with the Lady Jackets of Defiance College.
Saint Mary's won the first game 4-0, but lost the second 2-1.
The Belles played well in their first match, particularly on defense. Pitcher Kristin Martin had four strikeouts and held the opposition scoreless.
Saint Mary's also showed quick speed in the field as outfielder Cindy Traub made a diving catch to end the fourth inning.
This weekend, the Belles got some big hits as well. Sophomore first baseman Rachel Deer singled to right field, driving in two runs in the bottom of the second. Freshman outfielder Katie Murphy drove in one run with her single in the bottom of the fourth.
"We are a team that needs big hits," Deer said. "When we get the big hits, we get fired."
The Belles did not play as well in the second game, especially on offense.
The biggest hit — a seventh-inning RBI double — came from senior infielder Trish Klockner.
"All we needed was the right hit at the right time," head coach Joe Speybroeck said. "We just didn't get it this game."
The Belles' remained strong in the field in the second game, however, making one great catch after another.
They also had two double plays, one in the third inning and one in the sixth.
"Defensively, we are solid," Deer said. "We can beat anyone we play."
Pitcher Anne Senger had a good day, with six strikeouts, including two in the second inning. Senger gave up only one earned run to Defiance.
The coach said he wants the girls to be more aggressive on base.
"I keep telling the girls, if you think you can make it, go for it," Speybroeck said. "Just be aggressive. They looked all around, and in the first game, we looked really good. We hit, ran, and had very little errors."
Saint Mary's hosts Goshen College at 3 p.m. today.
All Sports Stories for Monday, April 3, 2000
