Softball Recap: Pike Takes a Loss

Pike had lost 17 straight at home dating back to last season, but on Tuesday they dropped their record down to 0-16 to make it 18. They came up short against the Daleville Broncos, falling 25-2. If the Red Devils were looking for revenge after losing 12-2 to the Broncos when the teams met back in April of 2024, then they'll just have to keep looking.

Lilianna Richardson was cooking despite her team's loss, going a perfect 3-for-3 with one run and one RBI. Jessica Neblett also deserves some recognition as she hit her first double of the season.

As for Daleville, the win (which was their third in a row) raised their record to 11-3. Considering they have won eight contests by more than five runs this season, Tuesday's blowout was nothing new.

On Daleville's side, Emily Simmons made a splash while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out ten batters over five innings while giving up just one earned (and one unearned) run off six hits (and not a single walk). Simmons has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in four consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, getting on base in three of her six plate appearances with one run and one RBI.

In other batting news, Valyn Pattengale was incredible, firing off six RBI, three runs, and three doubles while going 4-for-5. Those three doubles gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Maddie Rees, who got on base in four of her five plate appearances with five runs, one stolen base, and two RBI.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Pike will challenge Indianapolis Arsenal Technical at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday. As for Daleville, they will square off against Muncie Central at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday.