By Jeremy McDonald
Jeremymcdonald73@gmail.com
MEDFORD, Ore.– For a young squad, they definitely rose to the occasion in Medford.
The Silverton Softball team, coming off their season opening defeat to Central Catholic on March 20, wheeled off three wins to start the North Medford Tournament. Defeating Ashland/Phoenix (10-3), Bend (6-5) on Monday before starting Tuesday with a 10-7 victory over Del Norte going into their finale against Caldera of Bend Tuesday afternoon.
They started strongly against the Wolfpack, jumping out to a 5-1 lead after two innings. But then, Caldera found their rhythm.
A three run third inning pulled them within one of Silverton and the Wolfpack defense clamped down. The Foxes couldn’t add to their lead and eventually Caldera were able to pull ahead in the sixth in what became a 9-5 victory over Silverton.
Spoiling the opportunity of a perfect trip in Medford, but otherwise a solid trip for the Foxes. Growth and development was the goal coming in said Head Coach Ralph Cortez.
“That’s what we were talkinf about when we got here is growing and understanding what we need to do out here. Pushing the limit like we did today,” he starts. “Our pitchers are two sophomores and were battling all the way with everybody.
“Our hitting came through from one to nine. All-in-all it was a good team effort. Everyone pitched in.”
Silverton will continue their tough preseason slate on Monday when they travel to West Linn.
Photos By Jeremy McDonald
