Waseca dropped a 6-1 contest to Belle Plaine on Tuesday evening, but the final score doesn’t fully reflect how competitive the game was deep into the later innings.
The Bluejays were locked in a tight battle, trailing just 2-1 heading into the 7th inning. Belle Plaine broke the game open in the final frame when Alaina Johnston delivered a three-run opposite-field home run, extending the Tigers’ lead and creating separation late.
Offensively, Waseca collected six hits and consistently put pressure on Belle Plaine’s defense. Madison Roessler led the way with a triple and scored the Bluejays’ lone run, finishing 1-for-3 on the night. Ellery Waldron had a strong performance at the plate, going 2-for-3, while Alli Mader, Hannah Sommers, and Hannah Teague each added a hit. Teague also reached base via walk, helping generate scoring opportunities.
In the circle, Hannah Rugger turned in a solid outing, keeping Waseca within striking distance for much of the game. Rugger pitched six innings, allowing six runs (five earned) while striking out eight. Avery Barto provided a clean inning of relief, giving up just one hit and striking out one.
As a staff, Waseca pitchers combined for nine strikeouts, showing strong command and the ability to compete against a veteran Belle Plaine lineup. Defensively, the Bluejays were charged with two errors, which contributed to extended innings for the Tigers.
Waseca returns to action Thursday when they travel to New Ulm for a Big South Conference matchup scheduled for 5:30 p.m.