Softball: Preview of Rosemount

The Royals softball team traveled to Maple Grove on Friday to face the Crimson in a non-conference matchup, looking to extend their undefeated record to 5-0.

The Royals rode an explosive first inning and a strong defensive performance to a 5-0 victory.The Royals offensive attack was led by Parker Stoddard, sophomore, who hit her first homerun of the season and also doubled with another RBI.

Natalie DenHartog, junior, had two doubles and two RBIs.

Pitcher Mackenzie Merritt, senior,  earned her 5th win of the season shutting out the Crimson. Merritt gave up 5 scattered hits and struck out 3.

Impressive defensive outfield plays by Morgan Hawley, sophomore, and Evelyn Barczak, junior, and Lexi Schroers, senior, kept Crimson runners off the bases and halted any offensive threats.

The Royals remain undefeated on the season as they ready themselves for Rosemount Irish, and the Eden Prairie Eagles this week.

Today’s game at Rosemount will be a tough one. The Royals will face Tennessee bound pitcher Gabby Sprang, and a strong Irish offensive team.

The Royals will look to Merritt to continue her pitching domination, and come through with some key hits.