Catholic Central had lost six straight, but after bumping their record up to 2-17 on Thursday that streak is in the rearview. They narrowly escaped with a victory as the squad sidled past the Riverside Pirates 12-11. The Irish's offense finally found a way to get into gear: the high-octane performance was a 180-degree turn from their last five games.
Makayla McClendon was incredible, going 1-for-4 with two stolen bases, two runs, and two RBI. Those two stolen bases gave her a new career-high. Alyssa Gram was another key player, earning one RBI, three runs, and two stolen bases.
As for Riverside, they have traveled a rocky road recently, having lost five of their last six games. That's put a noticeable dent in their 9-12 record this season. Those defeats can't be blamed on the team's hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 9.5 runs over those games.
On Riverside's side, Emilee Robinson put in work no matter where she played. On the mound, she struck out 13 batters over seven innings while giving up just one earned (and 11 unearned) runs off nine hits. Robinson was also solid in the batter's box, getting on base in three of her five plate appearances with two runs, one double, and one RBI.
In other batting news, Karly Gilman was cooking despite her team's loss, getting on base in all four of her plate appearances with two doubles, one stolen base, and two RBI. Those RBI marked the first that she has brought in this season. Another player making a difference was Zoey Ransbottom, who got on base in three of her five plate appearances with three stolen bases and two runs.
Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Catholic Central will face off against West Liberty-Salem at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. As for Riverside, they will square off against Lehman Catholic at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. The Pirates' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Cavaliers have averaged an impressive 7 runs per game this season.
