Softball Recap: Leetonia Takes a Loss

Leetonia had lost 13 straight on the road dating back to last season, but on Wednesday they dropped their record down to 0-9 to make it 14. They lost 17-1 to the Columbiana Clippers. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Clippers this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 20-1 on Monday.

As for Columbiana, the win was the fifth in a row for them, bringing their record up to 12-5. They might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won ten matchups by eight runs or more this season.

For Columbiana's part, Caitlynn Pleska was a major factor no matter where she played. She tossed two innings while giving up no earned runs off two hits. Pleska has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than two walks in six consecutive appearances. She was even better at the plate, getting on base in all four of her plate appearances with five RBI, two runs, and two doubles. That's the most doubles she has posted since April 1st.

In other batting news, Maryn Hepler and Ella Dota did most of the damage at the plate: Hepler got on base in three of her four plate appearances with two stolen bases and three runs, while Dota got on base in all four of her plate appearances with two stolen bases and three runs. That's the most stolen bases Dota has posted since back in April of 2024. The team also got some help courtesy of Anna Yonker, who got on base in all three of her plate appearances with two runs and one RBI.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Leetonia will welcome United at 5:00 p.m. on Monday. The Bears are facing the Golden Eagles at the right time seeing as the Golden Eagles are stuck on a three-game losing streak. As for Columbiana, they will be playing in front of their home fans against Jackson-Milton at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday. The Bluejays' pitching crew has only allowed 3.9 runs per game this season, so the Clippers' hitters will have their work cut out for them.