Belles Drown Out the Jackets in Non-Conference Sweep

NOTRE DAME, Ind. – The Defiance College softball team fell in both matchups against the St. Mary's Belles on Thursday, March 28. DC lost the first tilt by a score of 5-1 and then was dropped in the second 10-2. The Yellow Jackets record falls to 7-7 (1-1 Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference), while the Belles improve to 8-6.

The lineup that had been productive over the past few outings was held in check by the St. Mary's pitching staff on the afternoon. Defiance was only able to manufacture one run on six hits in game one and two scores on three base knocks in the second.

Freshman Alli Rowland (Westerville, OH / Westerville North) took the hill in the first game and racked up 5.1 innings of work. She surrendered four earned runs (five total) in the outing, which was the same amount as she had allowed all season. The freshman was also knocked around for seven hits and a walk. Rowland's record drops to 2-2 on the season.

At the dish, DC was led by senior Katie Miller (Archbold, OH/HS) and freshman Makayla McAvoy (Mt. Gilead, OH/HS). Each batter went 1-for-2 with a double in the contest. Miller also added the only score.

In the second game of the doubleheader, the Belles got ahead early with five scores in the first frame off of freshman Katie Patchin (West Farmington, OH / Bristol Local). However, the defense did not help her cause in the outing. She surrendered 11 hits and 10 runs in four innings but only four were earned. Patchin's season mark now sinks to 4-3.

McAvoy produced at the plate again with a two-run single in a 1-for-2 effort. Patchin and junior Maggie Neanen (Eaton, OH/HS) also added one hit apiece.

The Yellow Jackets softball team returns to Defiance for its home opener on Saturday, March 30. DC will try to get back on track against HCAC foe Hanover College. The first game against the Panthers is set to begin at 1 p.m.