Softball Recap: Grand Island Takes a Loss

Grand Island extended their losing streak to five on Wednesday, dropping them down to 8-23. They were a single run away from ending the streak, but they lost a 9-8 heartbreaker at the hands of the Bellevue West Thunderbirds. The Islanders were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Thunderbirds apparently hadn't forgotten their loss the last time these teams played back in October of 2023.

Paislee Welty made the most of her time in the batter's box despite the final result and went 1-for-3 with one home run, two runs, and two RBI. That home run marked the first that she has launched this season. The team also got some help courtesy of Zoe Brooks, who went 2-for-3 with one run and one RBI.

As for Bellevue West, their record now sits at 10-21. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win they have posted against Grand Island since September 2, 2017.

On Bellevue West's side, Grace Veik was a major factor no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out nine batters over seven innings while giving up five earned (and three unearned) runs off ten hits. Veik was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-3 with three RBI and one double.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Aubrey Busch, who went 3-for-4 with three runs, two doubles, and two RBI. That's the most doubles she has posted since back in August. Jaycee Woodard was another key player, going 2-for-3 with two runs and one stolen base.

Grand Island does not have any more games scheduled as of now. As for Bellevue West, they have already played their next contest, a 9-4 defeat against Kearney on the 9th.