GIG HARBOR, Wash. - - Under a persistent Washington drizzle, the Logger softball team brought the energy on Monday morning for a Northwest Conference doubleheader against Pacific. While the Boxers managed to escape with the sweep, the Loggers fought back, defined by standout defensive plays and a persistent offensive grind that kept the pressure on until the final out.
How It Happened
Game 1
The series opener was a showcase of Logger resilience. From the first pitch, Puget Sound made it clear they wouldn't back down from a challenge. Starter Nyomi Estrada worked through high-pressure situations early, while the Logger outfield tracked down several deep drives to keep the contest within reach.
The Loggers' bats began to heat up in the second when Kylie Tanimura turned on a pitch for a stand-up double, a spark that energized the dugout. The momentum peaked in the bottom of the fourth, a true testament to the team's discipline. After Alison Madia hit a single to left center, Tanimura and Kat Avanzino showed great eyes to draw consecutive walks, loading the bases and forcing the Boxers defense on their heels.
Madia was a dual threat for the Loggers, stepping into the circle for four strong innings of relief and giving up only a handful of hits while keeping the Boxer lineup off-balance.
Game 2
The Loggers carried that energy into the series finale, showing their work ethic at the plate. Despite the Boxers finding their rhythm early, the Loggers refused to go away quietly, consistently putting runners on and forcing Pacific to make plays.
The breakthrough came in the fourth inning. Claire Besancon sparked the rally with a sharp single up the middle, followed closely by a base hit from Alyssa Waldo. With the runners moving, the Loggers' execution paid off as Macy Maxwell put the ball in play to drive in Kirstyn Scott, putting Puget Sound on the board.
Even in the final frame, the Loggers showed their grit. Olivia Boures led off with a single, followed by walks from Alyssa Figueroa and Tanimura. Loading the bases in the final inning highlighted the tenacity of this squad, playing every out until the end and proving they have the firepower to rally against any conference opponent.
Logger Standouts
Maxwell was consistent all day at the plate, finishing 2-5 with a clutch RBI to lead the offense. Tanimura proved to be a constant threat, reaching base three times across the doubleheader and highlighting the morning with a double. Brenna Flannery went two for two on the day and showcasing her speed with a stolen base, while Madia contributed a massive shift both in the circle and at the plate to keep the Loggers competitive through both games.
What Happens Next
The Loggers will take a well deserved weekend off to recharge and refine their game following Monday's doubleheader. This break comes at a the perfect time, giving the squad an open window to focus on training and recovery. Puget Sound will return to action on Saturday, March 28, with a four game series against Pacific Lutheran University. The cross town rivalry kicks off at 12 PM.
