(AVONDALE, Ariz.) Gilbert Christian softball put on an offensive clinic on Tuesday afternoon, overwhelming Highland Prep West for a 22-6 mercy-rule victory.
The Knights wasted no time setting the tone on the road, plating six runs in each of the first three innings before adding four more in the fourth to seize the win.
It was a breakout performance for freshman
Genevieve Whitehurst, who delivered one of the most dominant individual outings in recent program memory. Whitehurst went a perfect 4-for-4 at the plate, driving in an astounding 10 runs behind a triple and two home runs. She also drew a walk and crossed the plate three times, powering the Knights' relentless offensive attack.
Senior
Devin Vanni provided steady production for the squad, finishing 2-for-3 with two runs scored and three RBIs, while freshman
Sienna Pender showcased elite plate discipline by drawing five walks in the contest.
As a team, Gilbert Christian displayed patience at the plate, earning 18 total walks and consistently creating scoring opportunities. Once on base, the Knights were aggressive, racking up 22 stolen bases. Pender and junior
Meredith Whitehurst led the charge with four steals apiece, while
Genevieve Whitehurst added three bags of her own.
In the circle, Pender got the start and collected the dub, combining with
Meredith Whitehurst to limit the Hornets to just five hits on the day. Whitehurst struck out three in the affair.
With the victory, the Knights improve to 2-4 overall, gaining momentum behind a dynamic mix of youthful talent and veteran leadership. Gilbert Christian is back in action on March 27, traveling to San Tan Foothills for a regional showdown with the Sabercats. The contest is slated to begin at 6:00pm.
-GO KNIGHTS-