Softball Recap: Merrill Takes a Loss

Merrill extended their losing streak to three on Monday, dropping their season record down to 6-7 in the process. They were a single run away from ending the streak, but they lost an 8-7 heartbreaker at the hands of the Vestaburg Wolverines. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Wolverines this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 3-1 on Monday.

As for Vestaburg, their win was their eighth straight on the road, which pushed their record up to 14-2. Those road victories came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 10.8 runs over those games.

For Vestaburg's part, Sasha Page made a splash no matter where she played. She struck out nine batters over nine innings while giving up just two earned (and five unearned) runs off seven hits (and only one walk). Page has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't given up more than two walks in five consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, getting on base in four of her five plate appearances with five stolen bases and one run. Those five stolen bases gave her a new career-high.

In other batting news, Megan Beetley was incredible, going 4-for-6 with two runs, one stolen base, and two RBI. Those four hits gave her a new career-high. The team also got some help courtesy of Addison Neelis, who went 2-for-5 with two runs and one double.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Merrill will welcome Chesaning at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. As for Vestaburg, they will take on Sacred Heart Academy at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday.