Softball Recap: Tampa Catholic Has No Trouble Against Shorecrest Prep

Tampa Catholic won the last time they faced Shorecrest Prep and things went their way on Wednesday too. The Crusaders were the clear victors by a 10-2 margin over the Chargers. Considering the Crusaders' hitters had been struggling lately, the high-scoring outing was a much-needed turnaround.

Olivia Ricciardi spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered two runs (both of which were unearned) on three hits and racked up 14 Ks. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in 12 consecutive appearances.

On the hitting side, Tampa Catholic let Jada Johnson and Josslynn Grimsley run wild. Johnson went 3-for-4 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs, while Grimsley scored two runs while going 3-for-4. That's the most hits Grimsley has posted since back in February. Aubrey Beauchaine was another key player, scoring a run and stealing three bases while going 2-for-3.

Tampa Catholic was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .379. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Shorecrest Prep only posted a batting average of .148.

Tampa Catholic now has a winning record of 8-7. As for Shorecrest Prep, their defeat ended a six-game streak of away wins and brought them to 9-3.

Looking ahead, Tampa Catholic will face off against Berkeley Prep at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. The Buccaneers' pitching crew has only allowed 3.2 runs per game this season, so the Crusaders' hitters will have their work cut out for them. As for Shorecrest Prep, they will square off against Saint Stephen's Episcopal at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday.