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Ray Junior High School Lady Bearcats – Champions
The RJH Softball team after completing an undefeated season traveled to Eloy holding the #1 seeding for the Central League Championship.
Drawing the first game of the Championships, at 9 a.m., the host Eloy Blue Devils, were staring at them across the field. In what was a matchup from last year’s semi-final game, the Bearcats were up for the test.
The Blue Devils were up to bat first and the Bearcat defense retired them 1-2-3. The Bearcats were able to score 7 runs in the first inning going through the lineup one time. The 2nd inning the Blue Devils sent five batters to the plate, with 0 runs scored. The second time at bat the Bearcats were able to once again go through their lineup scoring another 7 runs. Eloy’s batting in the 3rd inning resulted in a 3 up 3 down. The Bearcats third at bat was an uncharacteristic 3 up 3 down. The Blue Devils last attempt at the plate they sent 3 batters and 3 batters were retired. Due to the run rule the Bearcats did not bat in the 4th inning. Final score Bearcats 14, Blue Devils 0.
The second game of the day, at 1:15 p.m., put the Bearcats against the Superior Panthers. The Panthers batted first and were able to send 7 batters to the plate resulting in 2 runs. The Panthers winning 2 games prior to reaching the championship looked to challenge the undefeated Bearcats. A team huddle and quick cheer got the Bearcats ready to open the flood gates it would seem.
The Bearcats first at bat resulted in 22 batters going to the plate scoring 19 runs. 3 triples and 2 doubles led the attack. The Panthers tried to respond in the 2nd inning sending 7 batters to the plate resulting in 2 more runs. The Bearcats answered with 2 more insurance runs. The Panthers final at bat they were able to send 7 more batters to the plate resulting in 2 more runs. The run rule was enforced and after 3 innings the final score Bearcats 21, Panthers 6.
Congratulations to the following players that made the All-Tournament team: Daniella Hinojos (pitcher/shortstop, batting), Tara Lorona (Catcher, batting), Julie Meza (shortstop/3rd base, batting), Amee Kenyon (3rd base, batting), Shelby Yocum (1st base, batting), and Julia Lorona (Utility, batting).
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