By Pat Tintle
Sports Editor
After getting off to an 0-4 start in which it was outscored 23-4, the softball team is looking ahead to a busy weekend in North Carolina as it takes on Kent State and Robert Morris.
The Bonnies will face each team once both today and on Saturday.
Despite coming off a 3-0 loss to Coastal Carolina, Coach Mike Threehouse has been pleased with the Bonnies’ pitching performance in recent games.
“The pitchers threw well the second day,” Threehouse said. “A lot of it is confidence and getting experience. The more we play, the better the pitchers will get.”
But while the pitching has been a strength, the Bonnies’ offense has been a harmful thorn in a potential rose.
“We did not hit the ball, but I don’t think that will be an issue all year,” Threehouse said. “We will be facing some great pitching this weekend in Charlotte. It is all about getting good at bats, not always getting a hit. You can help your team score a run just by grounding out to the shortstop in the right situation. We need to understand that if all that matters is getting a hit, a hitter is going to be disappointed a lot. It is about getting good at bats and being at your best when your best is required.”
The offense will try to do just that as Kent State (4-2) and Robert Morris (6-3) will be tough hurlers from the mound, according to Threehouse.
“Both Kent State and Robert Morris have outstanding pitchers,” Threehouse said. “It will be a good test for us at the plate. If we can stay off the high pitches and make them throw the ball into the zone, we will have a shot at being successful.”
Robert Morris’ team ERA of 2.35, paired with their team batting average of .295, has been key to the Colonials’ success. Even more impressive is Kent State’s ERA of 1.00. With a team who averages one run allowed per game, and a team that only lets in one run a game, the Bonnies will have their work cutout for them in Charlotte.
Going into the weekend, the Bonnies have a team average of .144 and despite recent success, the pitching staff is sporting a 5.73 ERA.
While the Bonnies’ statistics are not on par with their competition, Threehouse stated that from what he has seen, team chemistry is one positive.
“I see some great stuff in practice and in the dugout during games,” Threehouse said. “It looks like everyone has each other’s backs. They better, or there is no way we will be successful. A quality team is built with a bunch of individual players putting up good numbers with the understanding that no one can win a game by themselves. You need your teammates and they need you.”
Due to winter weather, the Bonnies will not play a home game until early April. That means travelling is a must in an outdoor game like softball. However, Threehouse stated that being on the road does not affect the performance of his team.
“We have been doing this for years,” Threehouse said. “We know what to expect as a northeast team. If you want to play softball in this part of the country, traveling is a big part of it. I am the type of coach that will play anyone, any place and any time.”
