MEEEKER | After last week’s home game against Rifle was washed out by rain, the Meeker 2 Goldrush 11-13 Rec Center softball team returned to action Monday, June 29, at Vix Ranch, defeating Grand Valley 21-10 to remain unbeaten at 2-0.
Despite the extended break, Meeker 2 showed little rust, scoring five runs in each of the first four innings while relying on patient hitting, aggressive baserunning and solid defense.
“We were disappointed with the weather, but the girls came out ready to play today,” head coach Deloy Cook said.
Meeker 2 wasted little time taking control, scoring five runs in the top of the first inning. Skyler Wilson, Leah Keeran and Teigann White each drew bases-loaded walks to force in runs before Riley Wilson added an RBI single. The inning ended with a steal of home.
The Goldrush tacked on five more runs in the second inning as Jaylyn Tatum drew a bases-loaded walk, Skyler Wilson delivered an RBI single, and Jada Gould and Keeran each worked RBI walks to extend the lead.
Grand Valley responded with five runs in the bottom of the second inning, capitalizing on walks and aggressive baserunning despite being held without a hit.
Meeker 2 answered with another five-run inning in the third before adding five more in the fourth. Axlynn Stallings and Tatum each contributed during the third-inning rally, while Skyler Wilson highlighted the fourth with an RBI triple. Keeran, White, Riley Wilson and Cora Ragsdale also drove in runs during the inning.
The Goldrush offense continued to pressure Grand Valley throughout the game, drawing 22 walks while stealing 38 bases.
“We have a solid batting lineup and all players were able to score multiple times tonight,” Cook said. “Our stealing game is strong, with Leah Keeran leading the team with nine stolen bases. Jada Gould led the team with five RBIs, and Aaliyah Schoup scored the most runs, bringing home seven.”
Skyler Wilson started in the circle and struck out three over one scoreless inning before Carson Cook, Gould, White and Schoup each pitched in relief.
“Our confidence remains,” Cook said. “We were able to pitch all five pitchers today, including Skyler Wilson, Carson Cook, Jada Gould, Teigann White and Aaliyah Schoup, which is always good to keep the energy levels up.”
Defensively, Meeker 2 did not commit an error. Riley Wilson led the team behind the plate, recording seven chances while throwing out multiple baserunners.
“Consistency is strong,” Cook said. “Riley Wilson behind the plate is picking off girls left and right. Players were able to play multiple positions, which strengthens our overall fielding knowledge and experience.”
Cook also praised several players for stepping into new roles during the game.
“I’m proud of Jaylyn, Axlynn, Elektra and Cora as they all stepped up and played new positions, which proved to be in our favor as they made some great cutoff plays and assisted with various outs,” Cook said. “All the players did well. We had 38 stolen bases. Assistant coaches Tod Gould and Kristi Wilson are a huge asset to this team, and we couldn’t do it without them.”
Cook said the team’s focus before its next game will be improving its aggressiveness on the bases while continuing to trust the coaching staff’s direction.
Meeker 2 Goldrush will travel to face Glenwood 2 on Thursday, July 2, at Two Rivers Park. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m.
#5 Carson Cook swings at a pitch during Meeker 2 Goldrush’s game against Glenwood 1 on June 18 at Paintbrush Park. Cook contributed both at the plate and in the pitching rotation as Goldrush opened the season with a 26-14 win. JARED HENDERSON PHOTO