Monticello wasted no time making a statement Friday, erupting for 14 runs in the first inning on their way to an 18-0, four-inning run-rule win over Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond in non-conference softball action.
The Lady Sages finished with 18 runs on 9 hits while drawing 7 walks, showcasing a balanced offensive attack from top to bottom in the lineup.
At the top, Sadie Walsh set the tone with a huge performance, going 3-for-4 with 3 runs scored and 2 RBIs. Reese Stiger added to the early momentum, going 1-for-2 with 2 runs scored and launching a two-run home run in the second inning.
Madison Highland was highly efficient at the plate, going 2-for-2 with 2 hits and a team-high 3 RBIs. Ali Weidner matched that production, driving in 3 runs while scoring once. Cassidee Stoffel added 2 RBIs, while Blakely Conner chipped in with a hit and an RBI.
Monticello continued to get production throughout the lineup. Zerren Ureno went 1-for-1 with a run scored, while Annie Robinson added a run on two at-bats. Emma Lawhead scored twice, and both Brooklyn Wierman and Dacey Kooi crossed the plate as well to keep the offensive pressure constant.
Even without registering official at-bats, Thea Key and Isabella Beery made an impact by combining for 4 runs scored and drawing multiple walks, helping extend innings and fuel the big first frame.
In the circle, the Lady Sages were just as dominant. After the 14-run outburst, Lillie Burse came in and threw three shutout innings, striking out five while allowing no momentum for ALAH. The pitching staff combined for 7 strikeouts and allowed just one total baserunner via walk.
With the win, Monticello improves to 2-1 on the season and will look to carry the momentum into Saturday morning’s road matchup at Fisher.