By Stephen Henderson
The Patrick County High School Lady Cougar softball team played two scrimmages last week. Monday, they played Grayson County and for the first organized game, it was a success.
“We were all a little nervous to begin with but nerves were shaken and we settled in and played great,” said Coach Roger Wilson. “We have a couple of girls that are playing new spots this year and some younger ones that we will look to throughout the season,” he added.
Cassidy Largen threw five innings during the scrimmage and threw well. “She had great defense behind her with familiar faces in the infield,” he said.
Those faces were Brandi Woods on third, Melanie Roberson at shortstop and Morgan Hughes at second. This year Zoe Hutchens was added to fill the spot at first, where the Lady Cougars lost All-Conference team player Ebony Reynolds to graduation. Melissa Pendleton is taking over at catcher for the other graduating senior, Beth Williams.
The outfielders were busy as well but are very familiar—all three returning from last season. Abby Hutchens in left, Savannah Moorefield in center and Hanna Hylton in right.
Throughout the season the Lady Cougars will look to the bench to help fill the batting line-up from Morgan Biggs, Sydney Biggs and Kelly Chandler. Samantha Nester is currently battling some injuries but is hoped to be back soon to help out with the work in the circle. Until then the Lady Cougars will look to Moorefield to help Largen.
Moorefield threw three innings in the scrimmage. “She did exactly what we asked and threw strikes,” Wilson said. “She has thrown since eighth grade but is willing to help out the team when needed.”
Thursday, the Lady Cougars traveled to Carroll County and played a seven-inning scrimmage. The first four innings were a real pitcher’s battle for Largen.
“We did have three girls reach base and in the fourth had a runner in scoring position,” Wilson said.
Largen finished the game with a great start to the season with 13 strike-outs. Again, her defense did a great job keeping runners off the bases. Only four CC batters reached base on two singles and two hit batters.
“Our offense made good adjustments to the pitching and had a total of eight hits and scored six runs. Overall, it was another successful scrimmage and we are excited to get the season started this week,” he said.
The Lady Cougars start the season off with a busy week of three games. Monday they traveled to Floyd, Tuesday they hosted Bassett, and Thursday they are at home against Halifax.
Also, the softball team will be hosting a double-header benefit game on April 8, against Magna Vista for teammate Hannah Beasley. JV will start at 5 p.m. and varsity will follow. (See related article.)
