Softball: Chemics continue winning ways

The Midland High varsity softball team swept Bay City Central Monday, picking up an 8-3 win in game one before taking the nightcap 12-2.

In game one, a trio of errors in the top of the third inning gave the Wolves an early 3-0 lead. But Midland answered right back with three of their own in the bottom of the inning highlighted by a two-run triple by Kelli Shafley.

The Chemics would come right back and score two in the fourth on an error by Bay City Central and pad their lead later in the game on an RBI single from Bethann Rinaldi and an RBI double from Emily Bentley.

On the mound, Jami Shafley picked up the complete-game win, striking out nine Wolves and allowing five hits and one earned run.

In game two, it was Amber Gerstacker who picked up the victory, striking out seven and allowing two earned runs in a mercy-shortened victory.

Offensively, the Chemics were led by Kelli Shafley who was 3-for-4 with a double, triple, and three RBIs. Bentley was 2-for-4 with three RBIs and Gen Kohoyda was 3-for-4 with a double and three runs driven in.

After the game, Midland coach Jason Gehoski was pleased with the doubleheader sweep, though somewhat concerned with the team’s defense.

“Our defense was a bit sloppy in the first few innings but our offense and pitching was able to keep us in the game,” Gehoski said. “Even with our six errors we were able to score enough runs to win…. I am proud of the girls for the way they don’t give up and keep on playing over the mistakes that are made.”

With the wins, Midland’s record goes to 8-3 on the season overall and 5-1 in Saginaw Valley League play. The Chemics will return to action Thursday when they host Saginaw Arthur Hill at 4 p.m.