Chartiers Valley in hunt for softball title
In losing to South Fayette, 4-2, the Chartiers Valley softball team discovered something regarding Section 2-AAA. In such a competitive league, said CV manager Jeff Reicoff, “you really need to play mistake-free.”
The flaws in the Colts’ loss were errors, two specifically, and leaving too many runners, seven to be exact, on base.
“For us,” Reicoff said, “that’s a lot. We also made fielding errors that didn’t help our cause. It was a good softball game and Ashley Iagnemma pitched a nice game for South Fayette, but Madison (Zimmer) pitched a good game for us, too. We just have to come up with more timely hitting with runners on base.”
In compiling a 5-2 overall record, 3-1 in the section, the Colts have relied on those factors. On the mound, Zimmer has been solid. Her line against the Lions read five hits, four strikeouts, three walks and two earned runs in six innings of work. Additionally, CV has scored 75 runs, an average of 10.5 per game.
“Our pitching and hitting have been very good,” said Reicoff. “Our attitudes have been really good, too, and our enthusiasm for the game has been a big plus. We have also practiced very well this season and it has paid off.”
Behind the plate, Brooke Lapia has worked out well (she replaced Libby Chidlow). In addition to her keen defensive skills, Lapia is batting .412 for the Colts. Seniors Karley O’Keefe and Alex Lawrence have bolstered the line-up. Lawrence is batting .588 with one homer and nine RBI. “Alex is off to a really good start,” Reicoff said. With a .643 average, first baseman Maddie Kresak totes a hot stick.
In the outfield, Miranda Griffith provides strong defense. Plus, she bats .450. Amanda Gross maintains a .438 average at the plate while trolling the outfield. Having recently recovered from an injury, Libby Schneider bolsters the outfield. “Her return should make our outfield even better,” enthused Reicoff.
Lauren Jennings and Amanda Griffith also strengthen CV’s starting line-up. The pair should help the Colts during their stretch run, which includes a key trip to West Allegheny on April 23. The Indians lead the section with a 4-1 mark. They are 6-1 overall. CV also has back-to-back games against Keystone Oaks, which is 3-2 overall, on tap April 24 and 28.
“Our goal is to qualify for the playoffs and compete for the section title,” said Reicoff. “We have to continue to work hard at practice and focus on what we’re doing. Our mental approach for practices and games is so important.”