The Observer, March 30, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 22
Bell, Sagartz silence Albion in doubleheader shut-outs
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The Spartan softball team sizzled in the 71 degree weather this past weekend while facing Albion College. Sunday's doubleheader resulted in two shut-outs for the Spartans, improving their record to 7-7 on the season.
The first game began with two hits early, but both runners were stranded on base. The game picked up speed during the fourth inning when both junior catcher Jen Bullen and pitcher Amanda Bell hit singles to get on base. Sophomore shortstop Angel Rice brought them both home with a strong hit out to left-center.
"When you see hits like that, it just pumps you up," said Ruthe Sagartz. "You know the pitcher is hittable."
Bell threw a shutout to preserve the lead for the Spartans, giving them a 2-0 victory.
During the second game, the Spartans started their scoring early in the first inning when senior infielder Carrie Casden singled. She would not stay on first base long as Bell hit a double to send Casden around the bases.
Leading by only one run, the Spartans continued to look for opportunities to score. In the fifth inning, freshman catcher Jessica Moore hit a drive to the fence for a double but was left stranded. It wasn't until the sixth when back-to-back doubles from freshman left fielder Katie Svilar and senior Carrie Casden increased the lead to 2-0. Senior Courtney Geib then singled to drive Casden in, making the final score 3-0. Sagartz earned the victory in the shutout.
The strength of the team continues to be its pitching. Both Bell and Sagartz have been outstanding lately, evidenced by their shutouts against Albion. Bell struck out four batters and walked only one batter in the first game, and struck out seven more in the second game. The win earned Sagartz recognition in the UAA, as she received Player of the Week honors.
Also receiving player of the week accolades was Casden, who leads the team with a .535 batting average. With her solid play at bat and senior experience, she is one of the team's most valuable players.
The real test for the team will come over the next week when they will play eight games against some very good teams.
"It is going to be a strain on our pitchers and catchers since our roster isn't that deep," said Sagartz. Although with the way she and Bell have been pitching, there is no doubt they will survive the tough stretch and earn a few more victories.
"The games this past weekend allowed us to really work as a team and increase the cohesiveness we've been working on. Not only did we take charge, but we set a precedent for the remainder of the season," said Stephanie Crawley.
The Spartans have two home doubleheaders this weekend, starting with one against Denison tomorrow. First pitch is at 1 p.m. Sunday; the Spartans will return to the field to play Kenyon.
