The Baker University softball team jumped out to an early 5-1 lead against Park University Wednesday, but after a four-run rally by the Pirates, the Wildcats needed someone to step up to clinch a victory on Senior Night.
Junior Erin Greenwood did just that as she hit a walk-off 2-run home run to give the Wildcats a 7-5 victory.
“Leading up to the at-bat, I was just frustrated at the pitches I had thrown earlier,” Greenwood said. “And I also hadn’t gotten a hit all game, so all that was on my mind at the plate was getting a base hit, but I guess I got my pitch and sent it out.”
While Greenwood is not a senior, this is her final season with the Wildcats as she will be going to nursing school in the fall.
“I tried to keep it out of my mind during the game, because I’m really an emotional person,” Greenwood said. “But I’m really glad that we won for the seniors.”
Park University was, as expected, a tough matchup for Baker. The Pirates came in with a 26-5 record, a No. 21 ranking and the third highest batting average in the NAIA at .385.
After taking a 4-1 advantage, the Wildcats forced the Pirates to bring in a new pitcher in relief for their starter, who had given up four runs. Baker added one more run after the pitching change when junior Tara Chumley scored off of an error.
The late-game offensive onslaught by Park made the Wildcats sweat out a close game, but Greenwood’s home run improved their record to 22-11.
Being their final home game, the Wildcats will only have a doubleheader against Central Methodist University before heading to the opening round of the HAAC Tournament, where they will attempt to snag the No. 2 seed.
As the season wraps up, the team’s focus leading up to the postseason will be maintaining its confidence.
“We mainly have to play every game just like it’s any other softball game and enjoy it just like it’s any other softball game,” Greenwood said. “You can’t get too nervous or think too much about it, or it will affect the game.”
