Melbourne, FL – The Wheeling University Softball team kicked off their spring trip to Melbourne, Florida, competing in the Space Coast Spring Games. Over two days, they played four games, ending with a 2-2 record. The Cardinals secured wins against Davenport and Roosevelt after splitting each day’s contests.
Game One: Bridgeport 3, Wheeling 1
In their opening game, the Cardinals showcased strong pitching from Maria Clark, who delivered her first complete game of the season. After giving up a run in the first inning, Clark settled in, allowing no runs for the next three innings. The game remained tight until the fourth when Brooklyn Sanders ignited the offense with a single, followed by a walk from Kearstin Monday. A passed ball advanced the runners, and when Katelyn Kozlowski walked, the bases were loaded for Priscilla Villarreal, who grounded out, scoring Sanders to even the game at 1-1.
Bridgeport answered with two runs in the fifth, taking a 3-1 lead. Clark continued to pitch well, finishing with seven innings pitched, three runs (one earned), four hits allowed, five walks, and three strikeouts. The Cardinals struggled offensively in the final inning, ending the game with a trio of outs. Sanders led the team with a hit and a run scored, while Amber Morgan added another hit.
Game Two: Wheeling 7, Davenport 1
In the second game of the day, the Cardinals bounced back, showing impressive offensive strength against Davenport. After a slow start in the first game, they quickly took charge. Ava Kresak reached first on an error, and Chyla Miller was hit by a pitch. A fielder’s choice put runners at the corners, allowing Kresak to steal home for an early lead. Then, Maria Clark drove in Morgan with a single, ending the first inning with a 2-0 advantage.
In her first career start, Kaylin Shields pitched a complete game, allowing just one run. The offense did not let up, adding more runs throughout the game, including a rally that started with KeKe Warrix’s triple in the second inning. By the end of the game, Wheeling had tallied 13 hits, resulting in a 7-1 victory. Kresak had an outstanding performance, going 3 for 4 with a walk and two stolen bases, while several teammates contributed multi-hit games.
Game Three: Holy Family 6, Wheeling 2
Day two started on a challenging note as the Cardinals faced Holy Family. Clark was back in the circle, allowing an early run in the first inning. Despite tying the game through an error that brought in Amber Morgan, the Cardinals struggled offensively. After giving up four runs in the second, Clark found her rhythm, pitching effectively in the following innings. However, the Cardinals couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities. Kresak led the offense with a 2 for 4 performance, but the team fell short with a final score of 6-2.
Game Four: Wheeling 6, Roosevelt 2
The final game of the trip saw the Cardinals face Roosevelt, where they finally showcased their offensive prowess, scoring six runs. The pitching was strong as they held the opposition to just two runs. This victory improved their overall record to 2-2 for the trip.
The Wheeling University Softball team continues to work hard and will play again on Tuesday, March 4th, against Saginaw Valley at 10 AM and Walsh at 2:30 PM. This report will be updated with further details as they become available.
