Softball season swings into action with weekend games

The Columbia Softball team opens the 2010 season this weekend at the University of Virginia Cavalier Classic. In addition to the Lions, Virginia and Delaware State will also be competing in the tournament.

The Cavaliers’ season began Feb. 14, and they have compiled a 4-7 record so far, with wins over UNC Wilmington, Michigan, and pair against George Washington. Senior Nicole Koren leads the team with four home runs and eight RBI in 30 at-bats, while outfielder Sarah Tacke has two home runs and five RBI in 24 at-bats.

However, Virginia’s pitching staff has experienced some trouble early on, an area that the Lions can potentially take advantage of. The team has combined for an ERA of 7.85, with 38 walks in just in 65 1/3 innings. Melanie Mitchell leads the team with a 3-6 record and a 6.91 ERA in 41 2/3 innings. Although she is averaging just over a strikeout per inning, she has also allowed 50 hits, 22 walks, and 32 earned runs. Koren has a 4.58 ERA, allowing 19 hits in 17 2/3 innings this year.

Delaware State has been victorious in all four games they have played this year. They walked away as winners of the NCCU Lady Eagle Classic by defeating North Carolina Central, Western Carolina, South Carolina State, and Barton last weekend.

Several Hornets hitters have started the season strong. Junior outfielder Andrea Waters went 5-17 with a home run and seven RBI, while outfielder Casey Beighly hit 7-17, scoring six runs and driving seven more. Infielder Tawny Reeger led her team with a .563 average and 12 total bases in her four starts, while outfielder Breanne Parr was close behind with a .538 average in her first 16 at-bats.

The Hornets also received solid pitching performances. Right-hander Amber Coburn notched her first two wins, compiling eight strikeouts in 14 1/3 innings of work. Sophomore Casey Beighly earned a win against South Carolina State, allowing a walk, an earned run, and striking out two hitters in one inning of work.

Columbia will face Delaware State at 11 am and then Virginia at 4pm on Saturday, Mar. 6th. They will repeat with Delaware State at 10 am and then take on Virginia at 4pm on Sunday Mar. 7th.