Kami and Ashley Pitch a Solid Game

It rained and poured all day Friday and well into the evening. The softball fields were surely going to be soggy and unplayable today. This would benefit the PGSL Storm because their team would be short-handed, missing four starting infielders -- pitcher, first baseman, third baseman, and catcher.

The alarm went off at 6 AM and I shut it off, secretly praying for the game to be canceled. I lay in bed, periodically checking the PGSL website and weather line. At 6:45 AM, the website was updated -- the softball fields were open and playable. I quickly consumed my warm cup of coffee, packed up my glove and camera, and headed to the Pleasanton Sports Park with Kami.

An 8:30 AM game time is early for the average high school girl, but the Storm came ready to play. Several players had to play in new positions to cover for the missing players and although there were a few errors, the team performed well. The pitchers stepped up and pitched a great game. Kami started the game on the mound, with the plan to pitch two innings and then play third base for the balance of the game. She walked a few batters early on, but settled into a rhythm as the game progressed. The coaches decided to keep her on the mound for four innings. Ashley came in on relief and pitched a wonderful three innings. Both pitchers took care of business, yielding no earned runs in seven innings. Offensively, the team generated runs on several clutch hits and aggressive base running, and they took advantage of a few timely defensive errors.

The Storm had a few young players cheering them on today. Members from the PGSL Mini Rec Mighty Minions softball team arrived at the Sports Park early to watch the Storm game. The Storm practiced with the Mighty Minions last week, with the older players mentoring the younger players. It was nice to see the Mighty Minions showing their support for the Storm today. After the Storm victory, a few Storm players went to watch the Mighty Minions play their game. The Storm were honorary coaches, acting as the base coaches while the Mighty Minions were on offense. It was fun watching the little Minions play today -- and I think the Storm girls had a good time, as well.

Here are a few photos from today's action:



Kami getting encouragement from Coach Q before heading back to the mound.


Marisa behind the plate: Marisa normally plays shortstop and center field, but played a few innings at catcher today. She's a great softball player and I'm sure she can play any of the nine positions in a pinch.


Veronica S. talking to Coach Rick, just before laying down a beautiful bunt for a base hit.


Another coaching moment, starring Coach Rick and Zoe.


Zoe coaching first base during the Mighty Minion game


A Mighty Minion player quickly exiting the batters box, on her way to a nice base hit.