Softball Recap: Western Takes a Loss

Western had lost five straight on the road, but on Wednesday they dropped down to 1-18 to make it six. They lost 18-0 to the Clay Panthers. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Panthers this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 22-1 back in March.

As for Clay, the victory (which was their fifth in a row) raised their record to 18-7. They might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won 12 contests by eight runs or more this season.

For Clay's part, Elin Shaw made a big impact while hitting and pitching. On the mound, she didn't allow a single earned run and allowed only two hits while striking out seven over five innings pitched. Shaw has been consistent: she hasn't tossed less than seven strikeouts in seven consecutive appearances. She was also stellar in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with four runs, one triple, and one stolen base.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Alayna Shepherd, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with four runs, five RBI, and two doubles. Those five RBI gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Heidi Smith, who went 3-for-4 with four runs and two triples.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Western will face off against North Adams at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday. The Green Devils' pitching crew has only allowed three runs per game this season, so the Indians' hitters will have their work cut out for them. As for Clay, they will square off against McClain at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. The Panthers' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Tigers have averaged an impressive 8.3 runs per game this season.