Softball splits home opener with William Woods

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Story by Jenna Stanbrough

After five games in five days, the Baker University softball team improved its record to 8-6 after a 2-1 record at the Friends University Invitational and a doubleheader split with William Woods University Tuesday.

Although they were originally scheduled to play five games over the course of the two-day Friends tournament, the Wildcats faced competition only on Friday due to inclement weather in the forecast.

After falling to McPherson College 6-5 in game one, BU rallied back to take a 5-1 victory over Midland University. In the final game of the day, the ‘Cats came back once again to defeat Tabor College 3-2.

The Wildcats then faced a quick turnaround, coming back for their home opener against William Woods University, where they split the doubleheader.

In game one, William Woods pitcher MacKenzie Bowden held the ‘Cats scoreless, striking out 15 batters and leading the Owls to a 4-0 win. Senior Renata Dill and Alyse Menghini were the lone Wildcats to get hits in game one.

William Woods led early with three runs in the top of the third inning and remained ahead of the ‘Cats for the entirety of the game, scoring a fourth run in the the seventh inning.

Freshman Katt Cooper recorded the loss, pitching six innings, while senior Brooke Plummer stepped in to pitch the seventh.

Game two saw sophomore Mallorie Nelson record the win by allowing just one hit as the ‘Cats came back to split the series, winning 3-0.

Senior Cami Williams, juniors Peyton Weekly and Alyse Menghini and freshman Sammie Schroeder saw hits in game two, including a two-run home run by Menghini in the bottom of the sixth to clinch the victory for BU.

The Wildcats will face their next opponent, Ottawa University, at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. March 17 at Ottawa.