Softball returns to diamond after a year off from Pandemic
Westfield, MA-- The MCLA Softball team returned to the field for the first time since the 2019 season as they competed this afternoon in non conference action against the Westfield State University Owls. The Trailblazers fell 9-0 in six innings in the opener before falling 6-3 in the nightcap. The games marked the season debut for both programs as well as MCLA head coach Adriane Baird.
Westfield is now 2-0 on the season while MCLA is 0-2.
Game One-
MCLA couldn't muster much offense in the opener as they collected just four hits in the opener. The Owls tallied a run in the second to take the early lead and would score in every frame following.
In the third innings, the Owls put up two runs to extend to a 3-0 lead. They would add solo runs in the fourth and fifth innings before putting the game out of reach with four in the sixth to earn the mercy rule win.
MCLA's Justina Pardi had two of the Trailblazer four hits in the opener. Sam Feinstein (0-1) was tabbed with the loss going 5.1 innings and allowing the nine runs.
Game Two-
In game two, the Owls scored a run in the first off Trailblazer starting pitcher Morgan Watson to take the early edge. MCLA would answer in the second inning as Erin Bickerdyke singled down the right field line scoring Pardi, who had doubled to lead off the frame, knotting things up at 1-1.
The Owls took charge with two runs in bottom of the frame to take the lead for keeps. They would extend the margin to 6-1 with a single run in the third and two more in the fourth.
MCLA finally mounted some offense in the seventh inning as Alyssa Avalos lofted a sacrifice fly that brought home Alanza Quinones. Madison Teta followed with another sac fly, this one scoring Hannah Bailey to make it 6-3. The Trailblazers couldn't keep things going however and the Owls came away with the win.
Morgan Watson (0-1) suffered the loss for MCLA going the first five innings. She allowed 6 hits and 4 Earned Runs.
Pardi continued her hot start with two more hits in the nightcap.
The Trailblazers are slated to open at home this Friday against Fitchburg State in conference action.