After a week off for spring break, the Marlboro County softball team returned to action Monday and Tuesday nights. The Lady Bulldogs showed some rust, falling to Marion in a non-region contest but rebounded by thrashing Crestwood.
The Tuesday night win keeps the team in a tie for first place in Region 6-AAA with Lakewood.
It took only three innings to dispatch the Lady Knights, 16-0 in Sumter.
Mackenzie Kubas pitched all three innings with seven strikeouts and gave up just one hit.
Ramzee Williams was 2 for 2 at the plate with 2 RBIs. Kubas was 2 for 3 with 3 RBIs. Baley Britt was 2 for 3 with 2 doubles and 3 RBIs.
Monday night the Bulldogs lost to Marion 17 to 9.
“It was a non-region game but we were rusty from the break and a few players gave less than their best effort,” said head coach Kevin Inglis.
Baley Britt pitched four and 1/3 innings for the Bulldogs, giving up 7 hits and 11 runs. Abby Quick came in relief and gave up 3 hits, 4 walks and 7 runs.
Britt was 2 for 4. Harley Oxendine was 1 for 2 with 3 RBIs. Williams was 1 for 3 with an RBI. Quick was 1 for 5 with an RBI.
“We had a team meeting before getting on the bus and after getting off the bus. We are in first place for our region and can’t afford to give anymore games away,” said Inglis.
“We have the talent and experience to be special this year but everyone has to give it their all and leave everything on the field,” he said.
The team will play Marion Thursday at home and host a rematch with Crestwood Friday. Both games are set to start at 6 p.m.
Inglis said that if the team can start playing their best ball now, their first playoff bid in seven years is within reach.
“Next Tuesday night we are playing Lakewood at home at 7 p.m. This game will be for first place. It’s our biggest, most meaningful game in years. We would love a big loud crowd to come support these ladies,” said Inglis.