The Hastings Raiders began last week with a convincing 7-1 victory over Burnsville on Monday but encountered a setback when they fell to Hill-Murray on Thursday. This mixed bag of results leaves the Raiders with a 3-2 record for the season and a 2-2 conference standing, placing them fourth in the Metro East Conference.
Facing off against the Blaze, Hastings found themselves trailing early after conceding a run in the third inning. However, they swiftly turned the tide, stifling Burnsville's offense for the remainder of the game, allowing just two hits. The Raiders exploded in the bottom of the fifth, scoring seven runs. Contributions came from Kaylee Hunt, Haley Strain and Lauren Jenkins, each driving in a run, while Sienna McCoy and Emily Dembroski each added two RBIs. Haley Strain showcased her pitching prowess going the distance with seven innings pitched, striking out seven batters and issuing only one walk.
In the showdown against Hill-Murray, Hastings faced a more subdued offensive performance at crucial moments. Despite outhitting the Pioneers six to four, the Raiders failed to capitalize on their opportunities to score. Both teams struggled offensively in the early stages, locked in a pitching duel. However, Hill-Murray broke the deadlock in the sixth inning, taking a 3-0 lead. Hastings mounted a late rally in the bottom of the sixth, sparked by Lauren Jenkins' hard-hit double and Sienna McCoy's RBI single. Yet despite their efforts, they fell short, unable to bridge the gap.
Pitchers from both sides went the distance, with the Raider offense tallying six strikeouts and one walk. Strain, while striking out six, surrendered three walks in the loss.
Looking ahead, the Raiders have upcoming games scheduled for Apr. 24 against North St. Paul, Apr. 25 at home against Simley, and Apr. 29 at home against Tartan. All games are set to commence at 4:30 p.m.
