HookedonGriz said:
Hood almost single handedly won that game for the Griz. To throw 10 innings and hold one of the most potent offenses in the league to 1 run is nothing short of remarkable. And couple that with the fact that Weber has seen her like 5 times now it's even more incredible. She is electric and we are lucky to have her. Not to take away from Stites bomb, that was timely and hugely needed. But besides that the Griz offense couldn't do anything but get in their own way. This is why I say Hood almost single handedly won it. I can't believe how many failed bunt attempts these girls had. It was extremely frustrating to watch the girls not get a bunt down to save their life. Not just once or twice but like six, including multiple pop ups. In a 1-1 pitcher dual, small ball means EVEYTHING and the girls failed miserably there. Sorry I digress, I'm so happy they still found a way to win and that shows a lot as well about their heart and character. Bring home the chipper! Hood for president!
HookedonGriz: I agree 100% that Michaela Hood is a consistent and powerful pitcher. She's particularly efficient with runners on base; she doesn't get rattled, just follows her pitching routine. She's got the ability to get better with each year.
BUT, I disagree that she single-handedly won the game. Yes, Montana has struggled in some games against tough pitchers. And there have been some examples of passive hitting/baserunning. Coach Pinkerton has been up front with his team's offensive output. In spite of that, Montana outhit Weber State 14-11; they just struggled getting runs home. Weber St. has a solid defense.
TEAM DEFENSE: But Montana's defense today against Weber State was championship caliber. Hood, in combo with Montana's defense, held Weber State to 1 run on 11 hits and 13 baserunners (thirteen!). Over the final five innings WSU had runners in scoring position in four of the innings, yet Montana's defense made the plays when they counted. TWO double plays turned by Montana's defense in the final four innings. And they were plays turned by an infield that knew where to play and where to throw the all for sure outs.
In softball and baseball a key phrase is covering for each other. When a pitcher struggles, the D covers for some hits & runs. When an offense struggles, the pitcher picks them up with clutch pitching... as with errors.
This is a complete team and today's game was proof. They only scored two runs, but the defense held WSU down until Sydney delivered the game-winner. The Griz earned their appearance in the championship game. Here's to continued and focused team play tomorrow.