WEST PLAINS, Mo. – The Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) Grizzly Softball team split its season opening double header Thursday, Feb. 9, with North Arkansas College in Harrison.
They defeated the Pioneers 8-5 in the first game but dropped a 2-4 decision in the second contest. The games were rescheduled twice due to inclement weather.
“Offensively, we were solid in our first game of the season, scoring in five out of seven innings,” Grizzly Softball Head Coach Don Long said. “Defensively, we played really well. We had one inning with committed errors, which gave up all five runs in that one inning.”
Freshman infielder Kenzie Massey, Grandby, went 3-4 at the plate with one out-of-the-park home run. Freshman outfielder Lexy Bridges, Diamond, was 1-4 in the contest with a two-run homer. Freshman catcher Sarah Fehr went 2-4 with a double and 3 RBIs.
Sophomore transfer pitcher Anabelle Hitt, Lynchburg, had 9 strikeouts and gave up 3 earned runs.
In the second game, the Grizzlies jumped out early to a 2-0 lead, but gave up four earned runs in the fifth inning.
“Offensively, we struggled from the plate. North Ark was able to hold us off in game two,” Long said. “Our defense was solid, though, and no errors were committed. We just couldn’t stop their bats.”
Freshman pitcher Kailey Garrett, Plato, had 2 strikeouts and 4 earned runs.
“I am extremely proud of the girls,” Long said of his team’s first outing this season. “We have seen a lot of growth from fall to spring. Their hard work in the offseason was really shining bright during this opening game. Everyone was able to contribute in some way. Overall, we played good, clean softball. We’re looking forward to our second outing this upcoming weekend.”
The Grizzlies will travel to Arkansas State University-Mountain Home Saturday, Feb. 18, for another double header. Game times are 2 and 4 p.m.
For more information about the Grizzly Softball team, visit the team’s Facebook page, Facebook.com/GrizzlySB, or MSUWPGrizzlies.com.
