MCHS comes up short in playoffs, season comes to an end

After finishing up the regular season with a 14-4 loss to Le Grand, the Mariposa County High School varsity softball team earned a playoff spot with their 8-4 record in league.

As they finished third in league, the Grizzlies were slated to play the Hilmar Yellowjackets in the first round of playoffs on May 13 at Hilmar.

“We were excited for the opportunity to play Hilmar again and to show them the team that we have grown into this season,” said coach Kiya Smith.

“From the last time we played them our defense has grown tremendously as has our ability to play small ball and hit through the lineup.”

Hilmar scored two runs in the second inning and didn’t look back.

The Yellowjackets would go on to score one more in the fifth inning and two in the sixth to solidify their 5-0 shutout over the Grizzlies.

Josey Williams and Bailey Costa were the only two players to record hits for MCHS.

Mikaylee Martin pitched six innings and faced 28 batters while achieving two strikeouts and allowing four earned runs.

Hilmar advanced to the next round to face Bradshaw Christian while the season came to a close for MCHS.

“I have loved my first season as the varsity head coach, I am thankful for the great group of girls that I have the opportunity to coach,” said Smith.

“I’m thankful for Tammi (Richards) to stick with the program and always support us.”

Richards was a coach during Smith’s time playing for the Grizzlies softball program.

“She was an asset to the program when I was in high school so having her knowledge of Grizzly athletics, softball at all levels and expertise is something I am grateful to have in the program,” Smith continued.

“The team’s success this year is a direct result of the hard work that the girls have put in this year. They are a great group of athletes who are always striving to get better and grow their physical and mental side of the game.”