Softball Recap: Forks Has No Trouble Against Ilwaco

Forks came out on top against Ilwaco on Tuesday thanks in part to the team's impressive nine-run fifth inning. The Spartans put the hurt on the Fishermen with a sharp 17-1 win. The result was nothing new for the Spartans, who have now won nine matches by seven runs or more so far this season.

Bailey Johnson and Chloe Gaydeski made a splash no matter where they played. On the mound, Johnson tossed two innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. Meanwhile, Gaydeski tossed three innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. She has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than two walks in 12 consecutive appearances. At the plate, Johnson went 3-for-4 with four runs, one triple, and one stolen base, while Gaydeski went a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs. That's the most runs Johnson has posted since back in March.

In other batting news, Pearl Salazar was incredible, getting on base in three of her four plate appearances with two stolen bases, three runs, and one triple. Those three runs gave her a new career-high. Avery Dilley was another key player, going 2-for-3 with three runs and one RBI.

Forks kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 15 hits. That's the most hits they've managed all season.

The victory got Forks back to even at 9-9. As for Ilwaco, this is the second loss in a row for them and nudges their season record down to 7-6-1.

Looking ahead, Forks will challenge Hoquiam at 4:00 p.m. on Friday. As for Ilwaco, they will host Wahkiakum at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday. The Mules have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed 13.8 runs per game on average), something the Fishermen will no doubt try to take advantage of.