Panthers Dominate in "Pink Out" Victory Against Abes

Jess Eaton sliding safe into home. Eaton went 2-4 with 3 runs scored.

On a radiant afternoon, the Bonney Lake Panthers hosted the Lincoln Abes in a league match that wasn't just about softball – it was about making a statement. With the wind gusting into the diamond and the sun casting a golden glow, the Panthers staged their annual "Pink Out" game, a poignant tribute to breast cancer awareness. As the girls donned their pink tops, they weren't just playing for the win; they were playing for a cause.

Pitcher Aspyn Evanson had 5 innings of work with 8 strikeouts, 1 hit and no earned runs. Photo Credit: Bobby Quick

And win they did. With a flawless record of 12-0 leading the PCL and the entire 3A Division, the Panthers were on a mission. Aspyn Evanson, the Panther's ace, took center stage and delivered a masterclass performance, as expected. Her pitching was nothing short of sublime, as she baffled the Abes' batters with eight strikeouts over five innings, conceding a mere one hit and keeping the scoreboard pristine with zero earned runs.

From the get-go, the Panthers showed their dominance. Lauryn Lee and Lalaina Baker ignited the scoreboard with back-to-back RBI singles, setting the tone for what was to come. With four runs in the first inning alone, the Panthers sent a clear message – they meant business.

Catcher Riley Shaw went 2-2 with 2 RBI's and a double. Photo Credit: Bobby Quick

But they didn't stop there. In the second inning, Riley Shaw's double and hits from Morgan Berg and Lauryn Lee further fueled the onslaught, adding six more runs to their tally. By the third inning, the Panthers were relentless, adding four more runs to their already impressive lead.

However, it wasn't just their offense that shone brightly. In the fourth inning, Zhosi Pool delivered a defensive gem that had the crowd on its feet. With lightning reflexes, she snatched a line drive, then swiftly turned to double up the runner at second, ending the inning in spectacular fashion.

Left Fielder Morgan Berg went 2-3 with 3 RBI's, a stolen base and a run scored.

As the game entered its final innings, Evanson showed why she's the Panthers' ace, closing out the match with a flawless fifth inning. With a one, two, three finish, the Panthers secured a decisive victory, invoking the mercy rule and ending the game with a resounding 14-0 win.

Yet, amidst the jubilation of victory, the Panthers remain focused on the road ahead, with their sights set on their next challenge against Mount Tahoma. As they march forward, their commitment to excellence and unity in the fight against breast cancer serves as a beacon of inspiration for fans and foes alike, transcending the game of softball and leaving a permanent mark on hearts and minds.