The Chillicothe Softball team opened their 2025 season with a dominant performance this weekend, finishing 2nd overall out of 24 teams in a competitive tournament featuring programs from Class 2 through Class 5. This marks the best finish in the five years Chillicothe has participated in the event, improving on previous 4th-place results in 2022 and 2024.
“I was really pleased with the way the girls competed all weekend,” said Head Coach Lee Rucker. “It’s a great way to start the season.”
Tournament Highlights:
Game 1: Win vs. Mid-Buchanan – 3-0
-
L. Marsh threw a complete-game shutout with 8 strikeouts, allowing just 3 hits and no walks.
-
She also led the offense with two triples and two runs scored.
-
M. Albrecht and A. Daugherty each drove in key runs.
Semifinal: Win vs. Lee’s Summit North – 7-2
-
The Hornets took control early with 2 runs in the first inning.
-
C. Peniston went 3-for-3 with 3 RBIs, and K. Fleener added a double and RBI.
-
A. Probasco earned the win, striking out 5 over 4.1 innings, with L. Marsh closing in relief.
Championship: Loss vs. Lee’s Summit – 2-6
-
Chillicothe scored twice in the sixth but couldn’t recover from a 5-0 deficit.
-
L. Marsh had 2 hits and 2 RBIs.
-
Despite allowing 10 hits, Marsh struck out 3 and walked only 2 over 6 innings.
Standout Performers:
-
L. Marsh: 4-for-7, 2 triples, 4 runs, 2 RBIs; 2 pitching wins, 14 Ks in 12.2 IP
-
C. Peniston: 5-for-8, 3 RBIs
-
M. Albrecht: 4-for-7, 2 RBIs, 2 SB
-
A. Daugherty: 3 key RBIs across the weekend
-
A. Probasco: 4.1 IP, 5 Ks, 1 ER in semifinal win
By the Numbers Saturday:
-
Overall Record: 2-1
-
Runs Scored: 12
-
Runs Allowed: 8
-
Team ERA: 1.87
-
Total Strikeouts (Pitching): 18
-
Team Batting Average: .323
-
Errors Committed: 5
With strong pitching, timely hitting, and improved defense, the Hornets have set a high tone for what looks to be a promising 2025 season.
After finishing Saturday 2-1 the Lady Hornets are now 4-1 to start the year.