Softball Recap: Ionia Triumphs

Ionia took a ten-run defeat the last time they faced off against Alma, but this time they managed to keep it close and that made all the difference. The Bulldogs sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 10-9 win over the Panthers on Thursday. Considering the Bulldogs' hitters had been struggling lately, the high-scoring outing was a much-needed turnaround.

Allison Shaw was a standout: she went a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run, three runs, and two RBI. That home run was her first of the season. Allyson Schmid was another key player, going 2-for-3 with two runs, two RBI, and one double.

Bulldogs

On Base Percentage

04/23/26 @ Alma	51.4%
04/14/26 @ Charlotte	41.2%
04/17/26 vs Fowlerville	37.5%
04/21/26 vs Eaton Rapids	31%

Ionia always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .514. That's the best OBP they've posted all season.

Ionia moved to 2-5 with that victory, which also ended their three-game losing streak. As for Alma, they are on a six-game losing streak that has dropped them down to 0-6.

Looking ahead, Ionia will head out to challenge Portland at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday. As for Alma, they will welcome St. Louis at 9:00 p.m. on Saturday. The Panthers' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Sharks have averaged an impressive 9.9 runs per game this season.