The softball team has had mixed results in their recent games. Though the team split both series against Westfield State and Middlebury College, they were unable to pull off a victory on Monday when they faced Brandeis University. Their struggles continued yesterday, when Amherst was shut out by Western New England College (WNEC). The Jeffs showed some pluck, however, as their bats warmed up and the players began to rack up RBIs­—at least before yesterday’s game. In order to continue to improve, the players will need to stay relaxed at the plate.

“The bats were quiet at the beginning of the season, but in the last few series, we have started to get them going,” said sophomore outfielder Jackie Tyler. “Stringing hits together and coming through in clutch situations has allowed us to score more runs and put pressure on our opponents.”

Amherst proved its mental toughness in its second game against Westfield State. Though the Jeffs got behind early in the first match-up and couldn’t overcome the deficit, they rebounded in their second contest, shutting out their opponent, 6-0. The Jeffs spread their production throughout the game, scoring runs in the second, third, fourth, fifth and seventh innings.

Tyler led the Jeffs, hitting 4-4, driving in two runs and scoring two more. Senior tri-captain Samantha Miller exhibited outstanding pitching, allowing just three hits and no runs in seven innings pitched.

With the win, the Jeffs entered their series against Middlebury with confidence and poise, and the first game definitely showed it.

The Jeffs exploded in the second inning, scoring four runs off of homers by Tyler and fellow sophomore Alex Chang-Graham. The fourth inning also showcased the Jeffs’ hitting ability, as they recorded another four-run inning, led by a home run by sophomore shortstop Emily Neill. Chang-Graham nearly pitched a no-hitter, allowing only one hit and striking out six.

The win was a team effort, as seven Lord Jeffs recorded hits. The match also showed the Jeffs’ new-found composure in pressure situations, as they left only two runners on base.

Though the Jeffs dominated in their first game against Middlebury, the Panthers looked as though they had something to prove in the second game. Middlebury looked sharp from the get-go, scoring four runs off of five hits in the first inning. The Jeffs responded run-by-run, recording one run in the third, fourth, fifth and sixth innings to tie the game at four runs apiece. At the end of seven innings, the two teams were still tied, forcing the game into extra innings. The Panthers finally broke the tie in the top of the 12th, scoring two runs. Though Amherst managed to score one run in the bottom half of the inning, it was not enough to overcome Middlebury, which held on for a 6-5 victory.

Tyler wasn’t discouraged. “By playing more solid defense and coming up with the timely hits, I’m confident that we can come out on top during those close games.”

Still smarting from the extra-inning loss to Middlebury, the Jeffs looked a little unfocused in their first match-up against Brandeis, which they went on to lose, 9-1. Amherst looked as though it would split the series with a rebound performance, thanks to a three-run lead heading into the bottom of the seventh of their second game. But the Jeffs couldn’t hold off Brandeis, relinquishing two solo home runs and a walk-off single to lose the game, 10-9.

While the offense continued to struggle in yesterday’s game, it was at least encouraging on the defensive end. Alex Chang-Graham ’10 pitched into the eighth inning, allowing only one run despite taking the loss.

Despite the bad taste the recent losses have left in their mouths, the Jeffs are confident going forward.

“During our last few games, everyone has stepped up and taken on a leadership role,” said Tyler. “Whether it’s pitching, defense or offense, our best games have always demonstrated a team effort. By coming back after a loss and playing a tough second game against Brandies, the team really showed heart and passion. Playing with fire and confidence is the key to success.”