Softball Recap: Grayslake North Triumphs

Grayslake North proved they can win big last Friday (they won by 13) and on Monday they proved they can win the close ones too. They skirted past the Vernon Hills Cougars 9-7. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest victory the Knights have posted since May 17, 2024.

Riley O'Brien

Hits (Career)

04/14/25 @ Vernon Hills	3
04/11/25 @ Zion-Benton	2
04/10/25 @ Lakes	2
03/25/25 vs Trinity	2
04/08/25 vs Grayslake Central	1

Riley O'Brien made a big impact no matter where she played. She pitched 2.2 innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. She has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't given up more than two walks in eight consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, scoring a run while going 3-for-4. Those three hits gave her a new career-high.

In other batting news, Alyson Alvarenga was incredible, scoring three runs and stealing a base while going 4-for-5. That's the most runs she has posted since back in May of 2024. Another player making a difference was Lauren Gaeding, who scored a run while going 4-for-5.

Grayslake North kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 16 hits. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now got at least 15 hits in four consecutive matches.

Grayslake North pushed their record up to 8-3 with the win, which was their third straight on the road. Those road victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 3.7 runs on average over those games. As for Vernon Hills, they are on a three-game losing streak that has dropped them down to 1-8.

Looking ahead, Grayslake North will face off against Wauconda at 4:45 p.m. on Tuesday. The Bulldogs have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed 10.25 runs per game on average), something the Knights will no doubt try to take advantage of. As for Vernon Hills, they will square off against Maine West at 4:45 p.m. on Tuesday. The Cougars' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Warriors have averaged an impressive 9 runs per game this season.