Manistique couldn't capitalize on their home-field advantage in their season opener. They fell victim to a tough 22-3 defeat at the hands of the Ishpeming Hematites in Thursday's first game. The loss unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Manistique in their matchups with Ishpeming: they've now lost nine in a row.
For Ishpeming's part, Payton Manninen was a major factor no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, tossing three innings while giving up just one earned (and two unearned) runs off two hits. Manninen was even better at the plate, scoring three runs and stealing two bases while going 2-for-3.
In other batting news, Brynn Lanala was a standout: she went 3-for-3 with six RBI, a run, and a double. The team also got some help courtesy of Kadie Kaukola, who scored four runs and stole two bases while getting on base in all four of her plate appearances.
The teams didn't have to wait long for a rematch: Ishpeming beat Manistique by a score of 20-2 later that day.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
