Buford advances to the finals after defeating Kennesaw Mountain 13-0 and Milton 8-0 on Monday, October 16 during one of eight Super Regional tournaments. Buford is playing host to the two-day tournament at the Buford Softball Complex.
During Buford’s game against Kennesaw Mountain, the Wolves beat the Mustangs in four innings. Senior Emma Grace Williams (9-0) pitched her second no-hitter and her eighth complete game of the season. She didn’t give up any hits or runs and walked two while striking out six. Her no-hitter was in jeopardy in the third inning but teammate Tavye Borders saved it with a great over-the-shoulder catch.
Buford’s offensive standouts in their 13-0 victory over Kennesaw Mountain were Kylie Gower (1-for-3, triple, three RBIs, one run scored, one stolen base), Mackenzie Pickens (1-for-1, double, three RBIs, two runs scored, one stolen base), Adriana Martinez (1-for-2, double, walk, two RBIs, one run scored) and Caroline Stanton (2-for-3, one stolen base).
After six innings, Buford knocked off their second opponent of the day, Milton. Stanton (12-0) pitched her seventh shutout and eighth complete game this season. She only allowed one hit and no runs or walks while striking out 10 batters.
In the Wolves’ 8-0 win over the Eagles, the offensive standouts were Addie Rackley (1-for-2, double, sac fly, three RBIs, one run scored), Madison Pickens (2-for-3, double, two RBIs, one stolen base), Izzy Rettiger (3-for-3, double, one RBI, one run scored, one stolen base) and Gower (1-for-2, double, sac fly, one RBI, one run scored).
Buford’s overall season record improved to 27-0. At 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 17, the Wolves will take on the winner of the loser’s bracket. If Buford wins that game, they will advance to the Elite Eight tournament in Columbus. An “if necessary” game would be played immediately afterward. If Buford makes it to Columbus, it will be the program’s 19th consecutive trip to the Elite Eight and the program’s 20th time since the fastpitch program began in 2002.
Featured photo: Buford pitchers Emma Grace Williams and Caroline Stanton both get the wins over opponents on Monday at the Super Regionals. Photos by Jody Jenkins.
