Outlaws turn in strong effort on the diamond

They might not have a winning streak, but the Sisters High School's youthful varsity softball team continues to do three things: improve, battle injuries, and gain vast experience.

"I keep seeing a lot of improvement, but we can't get away from the injuries" said Coach Dave Smith. "We have so many young players just learning the game that with the injuries they end up being put in positions new to them. But they are learning the game quickly."

The Outlaws, 2-14 overall and 2-11 in the Sky-Em League, will close out the season on Friday against Suthlerlin with a double- header at SHS beginning at 3 p.m.

The Outlaws hope to end their seven-game losing streak. Losses last week were to high-ranked Sweet Home (23-0 and 19-0) and Junction City (13-2). While the scores were lopsided, the Outlaws collected 17 base hits, including eight in the 19-0 loss to Sweet Home.

"The ladies did a great job putting the ball into play," said Smith. "We just need to get better at placing the ball."

While Sweet Home, the No. 15 ranked 4A team in Oregon, was able to put together multi-hit rallies, the Outlaws spread their base hits over five innings. Leah McIntosh led the locals with two hits and junior Amanda Smith struck out seven.

In the 23-0 loss to Sweet Home, Smith doubled, Kylie Steiner singled and Grace Maiden singled twice. Smith struck out six.

"I have been moving a lot of players all around, and they have been adjusting," said Smith. "The newer kids are getting a piece of them all."

Though the score might not have been indicative of the Outlaws effort against Junction City, it was one of their best efforts of the season as they hit the ball often. Smith led the way with two doubles and one RBI. McIntosh, Shauna Ferrell and Sarah Hartford also singled once, and Maiden drove in the Outlaws' other run.

Elmira (22-1), ranked No. 5 at the 4A level, leads the Sky-Em with a 12-1 record.