Softball Recap: Luray Comes Up Short

Luray extended their losing streak to three on Thursday, dropping their season record down to 2-8 in the process. They were two runs away from ending the streak, but they lost a 7-5 heartbreaker at the hands of the Pendleton County Wildcat. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Wildcat this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 14-6 back in March.

Luray saw seven different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Emilee Hassett, who went 1-for-4 with one run and one double. Makenna Breeden also deserves some recognition as she hit her first double of the season.

As for Pendleton County, their victory was their ninth straight on the road, which pushed their record up to 22-2. Those road wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 11.9 runs over those games.

On Pendleton County's side, Baylee Beachler made a big impact while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, pitching two innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. Beachler was also big at the plate, going 2-for-4 with one home run and four RBI.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Avery Townsend, who got on base in all four of her plate appearances with two stolen bases, three runs, and one double. She has been hot, having posted at least one stolen base the last five times she's played. Jaiden Mitts was another key player, going 1-for-3 with two stolen bases and one run.

Looking ahead, Luray will host Page County at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. The Panthers will roll in looking for their seventh straight victory, something the Bulldogs surely won't give up without a fight. As for Pendleton County, they will head out to challenge Greenbrier West at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. The last four games the Cavaliers have played have been within two runs, so don't be surprised if it's a close one.