The Lakeland softball team opened up their season today playing a doubleheader in Clermont, Florida. In game 1, the Lakers faced the Waubonsee Chiefs. The Chiefs took a 4-0 lead in the 2nd inning when they took advantage of a couple of Lakeland defensive miscues. The score remained 4-0 until the 5th inning when Lily Seay pinch hit and connected for a leadoff single. Kennedy Danna followed with a walk and both advanced on a passed ball. Lillyan Agostine then walked to load the bases before Astianna Coppes would hit a 2-RBI single. Agostine would later score on a fielders choice by Abby Haydu. 

Astianna Coppes led the Lakers going 2-4 with 2 RBI's. Peyton Trick went 2-2 and took the loss as she allowed 5 hits and 4 runs (1 earned) in 6 innings while striking out 3 batters. Carmen Alvarez and Lily Seay also singled for the Lakers.

In the nightcap, the Lakers faced the South Suburban Bulldogs (IL) and fell by a score of 6-0. The final score is deceptive as it was tight until late in the game. The Bulldogs scored a run in the 1st inning after they scored on a single, advanced on a passed ball, and then scored on an RBI-single. The score remained 1-0 until the 5th inning when the Bulldogs tacked on two more runs. The Bulldogs would put the game away in the top of the 7th inning when they scored 3 more runs. The Lakers had difficulty stringing hits together as they managed just 4 total hits. Astianna Coppes, Lillyan Agostine, and Reagan Hayes each singled while Midaliz Alvarez doubled in the loss. Lily Seay took the loss on the mound as she pitched the complete game and allowed 6 runs (2 earned) while striking out 6 batters.

Kramer's Quotes: "I was super happy with our game 1 effort and how we came out strong. Game 2 we struggled a bit offensively. Our pitchers threw awesome in both games to keep us in it and give us a chance."

Next Up:  The Lakers have another twinbill tomorrow as they face off against both Lake Michigan College and Triton College.