The Cashmere Bulldogs fastpitch softball team earned a key SCAC doubleheader sweep on Saturday, edging the visiting Zillah Leopards 7-6 in game one and holding on for a 6-5 victory in game two. With the pair of wins, Cashmere improves to 2-4 in conference play and 3-5 overall.
Game one saw the Bulldogs jump out to an early lead, scoring three runs in the first inning and adding three more in the third. Cashmere tacked on another run in the fourth to take a 7-0 advantage before Zillah mounted a late comeback. The Leopards scored two runs in the fifth and rallied for four more in the seventh, but the Bulldogs were able to hang on for the one-run win.
Cashmere’s offense was paced by junior Gwen Ledesma, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with two doubles, an RBI, a run scored, and a stolen base. Senior Ella Kenoyer delivered a key two-run double as part of a 1-for-3 performance and also scored a run. Kat Hansch added a hit and a stolen base, while Tryniti Collum doubled and scored. Macie Zimmerman chipped in a hit, drove in a run, and crossed the plate twice.
Zimmerman was also outstanding in the circle, tossing a complete game with seven strikeouts and just one walk to secure the victory.
In the nightcap, the Bulldogs again built an early cushion, taking a 6-0 lead into the seventh inning. Zillah threatened to spoil the sweep with a five-run rally in the final frame and had the tying run on base when the game came to an end, but Cashmere held firm for the 6-5 win.
Zimmerman went the distance once again to earn her second victory of the day, striking out nine while allowing eight hits.
The Bulldogs’ bats stayed hot in game two, led again by Ledesma, who finished 3-for-3 with a double, a run scored, and a stolen base. Hansch matched that effort with a 3-for-3 performance that included a double and a stolen base. Reylin Boyd provided a spark as well, going 2-for-4 with two doubles, two runs scored, two stolen bases, and an RBI.
Zimmerman added to her strong all-around day by going 1-for-3 with an RBI and a stolen base. Peyton Irelan contributed a hit, an RBI, and a run scored, while Kenoyer added a hit.
Cashmere will look to build on the momentum next week as they host Mt. Baker on Thursday and Kittitas on Friday.
