Last Thursday, Feb. 27, the Grizzlies softball team had an amazing day by defeating Labette Community College twice in a doubleheader at East Park in El Dorado. Butler dominated both games, securing an 11-4 win in the first and a 13-5 victory in the second. These performances provided ample teaching moments for both teams. Despite a solid showing from some of their hitters, Labette Community College couldn't keep up with the Grizzlies’ offensive firepower, whose hitters came out swinging, collecting 11 hits and scoring in nearly every inning.
Butler's redshirt sophomore outfielder Kylie Forney and sophomore infielder Kim Yepez were the stars of the game, each hitting multiple home runs. Forney contributed five RBIs, and Yepez had three, while the sophomore infielder Chloe Cardona showcased her all-around game with two hits and a strong performance behind the plate.
In the second game, Labette came out with some fight, scoring three runs in the third inning to cut Butler’s lead. However, Butler responded quickly, with a two-run performance in the third inning followed by a three-run surge in the fifth inning to put the game out of reach. Butler’s offense was relentless. Freshman infielder Karson Holson and Forney each hit home runs, with Holson contributing three RBIs. The sophomore infielder Claire Lopez and Kim Yepez each had multiple hits, keeping the pressure on the Labette pitchers throughout the game.
Labette’s pitchers faced challenges throughout both games. Caitlyn Suhrie struggled early, allowing five runs in the first inning before being replaced by Lily Beery, who showed improvement in relief but still gave up six earned runs over 4.1 innings. Labette will need to improve their pitching to set up a better performance. This will need to be a focus as they work towards their next matchups.
The Grizzlies will need to keep the same momentum to maintain their undefeated season. They will face Hutchinson Community College in a doubleheader on Thursday, March 6 in Hutchinson at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.