EASTHAMPTON — The Easthampton softball team had its share of bumps and bruises heading into Tuesday’s game against Northampton, but it was hard to tell by their performances in the circle, in the batter’s box, and on the base paths en route to a 13-6 victory at Nonotuck Park.
“Every time I show up to work, it’s a different obstacle,” said Easthampton head coach Corey Robinson. “We had nine players available (Tuesday). My pitcher (Rosie Follet) was unavailable because she had thrown a hundred and something pitches (Monday in a win over Turners Falls).”
The Eagles relied on more unfamiliar faces Tuesday, with the most notable being in the circle. Yet, Lauren Morse was able to perform effectively.
“Lauren (Morse) had her first career varsity start, and we had three girls with zero high school experience out there,” Robinson said. “Lauren threw a great game… she stepped in — did admirably out there.”
Morse allowed only two earned runs in her first time pitching at the varsity level. She also excelled from the batter’s box with a 3-for-4 day with three runs batted in. She led Easthampton in both categories on the day.
Right behind Morse in those offensive statistics was center fielder Haley Routhier, who went 2-for-4 with two runs batted in.
“I said to [the team] the other day, ‘we’ve got to avoid the pop-ups and strikeouts — put the ball in play — good things will happen,” Robinson said.
Northampton had a share of standout performers in the matchup as well. Shortstop Molly Allen collected two hits along with a walk and two runs batted in. Blue Devils pitcher Kaliya Valentin was effective on the rubber with seven strikeouts and no walks, and she also reached base safely twice to go with an RBI.
Valentin’s will to compete was also on display in the bottom of the third when she was hit with a hard line drive, but was able to shake it off and pitch for the remainder of the game.
All in all, Robinson said he’s very content with how the team has reacted to some unfortunate circumstances.
“Every day is a different challenge this season, but these girls have pulled through,” Robinson said. “After losing that first one to Wahconah, they’ve responded well, and we’ve won the last three.”
Northampton led 1-0 after half an inning Tuesday before the Eagles responded with four in the bottom of the frame to snatch control. It was a 6-4 game into the bottom of the fourth, when Easthampton put things out of reach with another four-spot.
Easthampton (3-1) will head to East Longmeadow for a game on Thursday, while Northampton (0-5) hosts Chicopee Comp on Wednesday.