In one of the most anticipated matchups of the early season, the team achieved a statement win over rival SPF. Behind powerful pitches and great hits, the Blue Devils crushed the Raiders 7-0.
From the first pitch, junior pitcher Dylan Esposito set the tone. She worked with confidence and precision keeping SPF hitters off balance throughout the game. “My mindset going in was to try to hit my spots and hit my spins.” Esposito said.
Head coach Caitlyn Cheddar highlighted the juniors performance. “Dylan set an awesome tone on the circle. She threw strikes, she was ahead, kept batters off balance, she did an awesome job” she said. Although Esposito played a significant role in the team’s win, she wasn’t alone as it was a team effort. “It was really nice to be able to put together a full game. We’ve seen really good defensive performances, and we’ve seen really good offensive performances, and finally, today, they came together” Cheddar added.
Offensively the team backed their pitcher up with some great hits. The team was able to time the hits with all round bunts, singles and doubles across the board. Senior Kayla Reyes noted on what played into their key accomplishments. “Something that went well for us was each inning we were making sure to make our plays in the field and have each other’s backs. Even everybody in the dugout had high energy the entire time, and we made contact on our at bats in every inning. Everybody played a part, it wasn’t one person’s job. It was a team effort”
The rivalry with SPF added another layer of intensity, bringing out the best in the team. “SPF is one of our biggest rivals in every sport, but especially softball. So we knew we wanted to start out really strong and just make sure the entire game we’re being consistent with our abilities and maintaining high energy,” Reyes said.
Cheddar emphasized how rivalry games can elevate a team’s success and determination. “I think that they always look to beat SPF in anything, so I don’t think they’re gonna need me for any motivation.” she said.
The Blue Devils not only secured an early season victory with this win but also built momentum. “We can use this as motivation because it is momentum. We just beat one of our main opponents, and we’re going to take that momentum into the next game.” said Esposito.
The girls will look to use this as motivation as they travel to Johnathan Dayton High School for their next game on Friday at 4:30 p.m.
