Softball Recap: Newark Takes a Loss

Newark extended their losing streak to four on Thursday, dropping them down to 2-13. They were a single run away from ending the streak, but they lost a 12-11 heartbreaker at the hands of the Pickerington Central Tigers. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Tigers this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 22-3 on April 8th.

Lexi Shanaberg led a balanced group of hitters, going 2-for-4 with one home run, four runs, and two RBI. Another player making a difference was Savannah Woody, who went 3-for-5 with three RBI, two doubles, and one run.

As for Pickerington Central, they are on a roll lately: they've won four of their last five matchups. That's provided a nice bump to their 11-5 record this season. The wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 14.2 runs over those games.

On Pickerington Central's side, Camree Cunningham was incredible, firing off two home runs, four runs, and two stolen bases while getting on base in all five of her plate appearances. That's the most stolen bases Cunningham has posted since back in May of 2025. The team also got some help courtesy of Mycah Massey, who went 2-for-4 with one home run, four RBI, and two runs.

Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming contests. Newark will challenge Olentangy Liberty at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. As for Pickerington Central, they will venture away from home to challenge Lancaster at 5:15 p.m. on Friday. The Tigers' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Golden Gales have averaged an impressive 6.7 runs per game this season.