Saints softball and baseball compete in sophomore showcases

BASEBALL

Lower Columbia College hosted a baseball sophomore showcase event Sept. 24 — including MHCC players — that drew approximately 60 four-year college scouts, as well as major league scouts from every team in the majors.

The showcase was highlighted by two 12-inning all-star games. The South All-Stars defeated the East 7-5, while the West just fell short against the North with a final score of 9-8.

Although the MHCC roster is not set, it is likely that the team will welcome back standout relief pitcher Christian Bannister. Bannister made his mark as a freshman shattering the school’s saves record with 16 saves in 16 opportunities, a record previously set by Brooks Lindsley in 2007, (10 saves in 10 opportunities).

Bannister ended the season with a 0.00 E.R.A. helping the Saints place third in the NWAACCs tournament after missing the post-season the prior year for the first time in 16 years.

SOFTBALL

The MHCC softball team is already building on last year’s history-making season when the Saints claimed their third consecutive NWAACC Championship title and Southern Region title under head coach Meadow McWhorter.

On Sept. 24,, the Saints competed in the NWAACC Sophomore Showcase and Fall Tournament at Delta Park East in Portland. The 35 scrimmages, which involved 22 of the leagues 27 teams, served as friendly competition with two

All-Star matches highlighting the day. The North defeated the South 6-5 while the East dominated the West 31-3.

The Saints have lost key contributors who have left big shoes to fill this season: ace pitcher Kayla Anderson who went on to play at Eastern Oregon University; pitcher Chelsea Schriber, who went on to play at Corbin University; outfielder Brittany Chestnut who also went to Corbin; outfielder Jessica Guy who went on to play at McWhorter’s alma mater Jacksonville State University; and Amanda Bunch, who was named the co-tournament MVP of the NWAACCs (along with Anderson).

Still, the Saints have a roster full of talent including standout returners Mai Galusha who is named as one of the players to watch this season , Ashley Devincenzi, Lola Ciu, Jessie Lindsey, Chantel McLaughlin, Alexis Cline and Brea Walters. As of press time, the roster has not been officially solidified, and new team members have not be named.