Softball: Varsity Chemics cruise past Phoenix

by Cory Butzin

Goliath proved to be too much this time.

The Midland High varsity softball team dismantled visiting Flint Central 15-0 in the opener, before improving on that mark and taking the second game 17-0 to sweep the series Thursday at Midland High School.

“Pitching was excellent,” said Midland coach Christina Griffis. “Amber Gerstacker and Jami Shafley pitched outstanding. There was a lot of movement on Jami’s pitches and Amber is throwing really hard right now.”

Shafley took the mound in the opener for the Chemics and struck out eight of the nine batters she faced, before the mercy rule took effect, for a no-hitter. Gerstacker kept Central from the base paths in the night cap too, striking out six without allowing a hit.

Breanne Walkowiak led Midland offensively going 2-for-2 with a home run, while Elise Wright had a home run, as well, to go 1-for-1.

“I think even with their pitching as slow as it was we were able to take some aggressiveness into batting and base running,” Griffis said. “I was pleased with the fact that the girls were down and running after every single pitch no matter what. Then they made zero errors in both games, which is a huge benefit for us.”

The Chemics improved to 3-1 on the season. They return to action Saturday when they will take part in the Lancer Invitational at Bullock Creek High School. Opening games begin at 10 a.m.