HobbsDailyReport.com
HICKORY – Lenoir-Rhyne University moved a win away from 20 this season in women’s softball on Saturday by sweeping visiting Converse 12-1 and 11-0.
The Bears, ranked No. 12 in NCAA Division II, improved to 19-4 overall as they head into their next games, a 2 p.m. home doubleheader Wednesday against Augusta (Ga.).
LRU has won nine straight games after pounding Converse (2-22) and is 12-0 at home this season.
LRU 12, Converse 1
CATES
The Bears were led by senior catcher Mackenzie Cates, who was 3-for-4 with a home run, three runs batted in and two runs scored.
Sophomore designated player Mackensi Swain also drove in three runs for LRU.
Every player in the Bears’ starting lineup had at least one hit.
Converse’s Allison Plafcan had a hit and drove in the Valkyries’ only run.
Junior Brandi Parks earned a victory, improving to 8-3 after pitching three innings and allowing a run and striking out five.
The loss was given to Converse’s Jianna Pellegrino (1-5).
LRU 11, Converse 0
The Bears kept their hot hitting going, once again paced by Cates. She hit two home runs, including a grand slam, and drove in six runs.
Junior Emily Kenley earned her 10th victory of the season – she’s 10-1 — after throwing a complete game, four-hit shutout.
Converse’s Marissa Steadman (1-11) suffered the loss.
— Reported by LRU Sports Information