Softball Recap: Janesville Craig Comes Up Short

Janesville Craig had lost six straight on the road dating back to last season, but on Monday they dropped their record down to 3-8 to make it seven. They lost 12-5 to the Badger Badgers. The Cougars were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Badgers apparently hadn't forgotten their loss the last time these teams played back in April of 2024.

Alexis Hanson was cooking despite her team's loss, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two doubles, two RBI, and one run. The team also got some help courtesy of Ava Schaffner, who went 2-for-4 with two runs and one double.

As for Badger, the win (which was their fourth in a row) raised their record to 5-3. That seven run margin sets a new team best for them this season.

On Badger's side, Miah Butinas made a big impact while hitting and pitching. She tossed two innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit. Butinas was even better at the plate, going a perfect 4-for-4 with three runs, one stolen base, and two RBI.

In other batting news, Badger let Kaela Zapadinsky and Lilly Butinas run wild. Zapadinsky went 2-for-3 with one home run, five RBI, and two runs, while Butinas went 2-for-3 with one home run, three runs, and two RBI. That home run was Zapadinsky's first of the season. Claire Polyock was another key player, going 3-for-4 with two doubles, one run, and one RBI.

Coming up, Janesville Craig will look to defend their home field on Wednesday against Beloit Memorial at 4:30 p.m. As for Badger, they will square off against Wilmot at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The Badgers are facing the Panthers at the right time seeing as the Panthers are stuck on a five-game losing streak.