It can be hard to translate regular season success to the playoffs, but Pace had no problem doing just that on Thursday. Their pitcher stepped up to hand the Tate Aggies a 15-0 shutout. The result was nothing new for Pace, who have now won 17 matches by six runs or more so far this season.
Jayden Heavener made a big impact no matter where she played. On the mound, she struck out six batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs or hits (and only one walk). Heavener has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in 22 consecutive pitching appearances. Heavener was also stellar in the batter's box, going 3-for-3 with a home run and four RBI.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Shelby McKenzie, who went 4-for-4 with a home run, three runs, and four RBI. Another player making a difference was Britten Kettler, who went 1-for-1 with a home run, three RBI, and two runs.
Pace is on a roll lately: they've won 15 of their last 16 matchups, which provided a nice bump to their 23-2 record this season. As for Tate, they have been struggling recently as they've lost three of their last four contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 15-11 record this season.
Pace will look to defend their home field on Thursday against Oviedo at 7:00 p.m. Pace's pitching crew has only allowed 0.9 runs per game this season, so Oviedo's hitters will have their work cut out for them. As for Tate, they will head out on the road to square off against Hagerty at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. Hagerty will roll in looking for their fourth straight win, something Tate surely won't give up without a fight.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
