Despite inconsistency in play and a record of only 2-3, the Ohio softball team wrapped up its fourth straight weekend of tournaments at the Georgia Bulldog Invitational on some high notes.
Standing out for the Bobcats was freshman pitcher Lauren McClary, who tossed two no-hitters during the weekend, one in each of Ohio’s wins. McClary had already pitched a one-hitter in her young career before shutting down both Rutgers and Cleveland State in Georgia.
“I’m not surprised by her success this weekend. She is great and very confident with good command,” Ohio coach Jodi Hermanek said. “There was great defense behind her, and all around, we were strong in those games, but she was the leader and deserves it.”
Ohio began the tournament with a 9-6 loss to Mercer on Friday. The Bobcats held a 5-2 lead after six innings but collapsed in the seventh, as they allowed seven runs largely because of three Ohio errors.
But the Bobcats bounced back in their second game of the day against Rutgers in the first of McClary’s two no-hitters.
Ohio won 9-0 in five innings in a complete team performance. The Bobcats committed no errors and recorded 14 hits on offense. Lauren Gellerman led the Bobcats at the plate with a three-run home run.
In the second day of action, the trend of inconsistency continued. Ohio was routed by Minnesota 10-0 in the first game and then gave its all against No. 7 Georgia, falling short in a 7-3 battle.
Both the Bobcats and the Bulldogs recorded only four hits, but the deciding factor was walked batters. McClary pitched a complete game against the top-ranked team, but allowed 11 walks. Georgia pitcher Erin Arevalo walked only two Ohio batters.
“We were very competitive against Georgia, and it was good to see that we can compete with anyone. We went out on the field and played great,” Hermanek said. “Inconsistency, however, was definitely a problem this weekend, and we have to step into our roles and not let uncontrollables affect us.”
Ohio finished its play at the tournament Sunday morning against Cleveland State. McClary tossed her second no-hitter in three days, and Ohio won 9-0 in five innings.
The Bobcats have the next two weeks off. Hermanek said she is glad the team will finally get time to rest and to get back to basics with extended practice time.
cl027410@ohiou.edu
