The Utica varsity softball team endured a tough outing on Monday, April 13, falling 16‑3 at home in a conference matchup against Lakewood.
The Lancers’ offense surged early, plating four runs in the first inning and eight more in the second to build an insurmountable lead. Utica managed to respond with a run in the second and two in the third, but the momentum remained firmly with Lakewood, who finished with 14 hits compared to Utica’s five.
For Utica, several players showed resilience at the plate. Kenzie Fletcher reached base and posted a .667 on‑base percentage, while Kaitlin Evans contributed with a hit and drove in a run despite striking out twice. Makena Wilson delivered one of the team’s strongest offensive moments, recording a hit and finishing with a 1.500 slugging percentage. Addie Moore and Nicole Hampshire also reached base, helping Utica manufacture runs in the middle innings.
Defensively, Utica’s fielding was mixed. Evans and Katie Kidd each recorded perfect fielding percentages, combining for four putouts and four assists. Addie Moore and Hampshire also played error‑free ball, but the team committed three errors overall, which contributed to Lakewood’s extended innings.
On the mound, Utica rotated pitchers in an effort to contain Lakewood’s bats. Evans threw one inning, allowing two hits and one earned run while walking two. Wilson logged the bulk of the work, facing 17 batters across multiple innings, surrendering 12 runs—four earned—while striking out two. Emily Meyers also saw action, finishing with a 6.00 ERA in her appearance. As a staff, Utica combined for an 11.20 ERA, with four walks and four strikeouts.
Despite the lopsided score, Utica showed flashes of determination, particularly in the third inning when they strung together two runs to cut into Lakewood’s lead. The team will look to regroup quickly with another conference test ahead.
Next up, Utica travels to face Newark Catholic on Friday, April 17, at 5 p.m. The matchup carries added intrigue: in their last meeting on May 12, 2025, Utica defeated Newark Catholic 11‑4. The Redskins will aim to recapture that form and bounce back from Monday’s setback with a stronger performance on the road.
