Softball Recap: Proviso East Comes Up Short

Proviso East extended their losing streak to nine on Friday, dropping their season record down to 1-11 in the process. They lost 19-0 to the Willowbrook Warriors. The result was an unpleasant reminder to the Pirates of the 15-3 loss they experienced in the pair's previous head-to-head fixture back in May of 2024.

As for Willowbrook, the win was the fourth in a row for them, bringing their record up to 12-7. Considering they have won six games by more than nine runs this season, Friday's blowout was nothing new.

For Willowbrook's part, Isabel Bates made a splash no matter where she played. She struck out six batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs or hits (and only one walk). Bates has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in four consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-4 with two RBI, one run, and one double.

In other pitching news, Kyliegh Miazga looked comfortable as she pitched one inning while giving up no earned runs or hits.

Back at the plate, Willowbrook got a massive performance out of Marli Smrz, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with three stolen bases, four runs, and two doubles. Those four runs gave Smrz a new career-high. Sonia Ruchala was another key player, going a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs.

Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Proviso East will face off against Fenton at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday. As for Willowbrook, they will challenge Downers Grove South at 4:30 p.m. on Monday.