The Calera Eagles bounced back from a rough start to their weekend by securing two victories against the T.R. Miller Tigers and the Stanhope Elmore Mustangs during a series of games in Wetumpka on February 28, 2024. After suffering back-to-back losses earlier in the week, the Eagles demonstrated resilience despite their initial defeat against the Enterprise Wildcats.
Calera’s weekend began with a challenging match against the Enterprise Wildcats, where the Eagles struggled significantly. They fell to a decisive 12-0 defeat, with the Wildcats taking control from the outset. Enterprise scored one run in the first inning, followed by four in the second, one in the third, and six in the fourth, leading to an early end to the game due to the mercy rule.
Two pitchers represented Calera in the match. Bristol Rodgers allowed four runs on three hits in one inning, while Stella Schilleci pitched three innings, giving up eight runs on five hits, along with three strikeouts and three walks. This loss could have dampened the Eagles’ spirits, but they rallied for their next two games.
Calera’s first victory came against the T.R. Miller Tigers, whom they defeated 12-2. The Eagles wasted no time, scoring early in the first inning. Mia Wade led off with a walk and quickly advanced to score on a double from Schilleci. Shortly after, Armiya Shamburger hit a home run, placing Calera ahead 3-0.
The Eagles maintained their offensive momentum, particularly in a dominant fourth inning where they scored multiple runs. Key plays included Wade’s two-run single, Schilleci’s subsequent hit, and an RBI triple from Shamburger, contributing to a substantial lead of 10-2 before the inning ended. T.R. Miller managed to score two runs in the bottom of the fourth, but Calera quickly responded, securing their victory with a final score of 12-2. Rodgers pitched effectively, not allowing any runs during her three innings of work.
Following their success against T.R. Miller, Calera faced the Stanhope Elmore Mustangs. This game posed a different challenge; the Mustangs struck first, scoring two runs early. Nevertheless, Calera remained undeterred. Wade’s aggressive play led to a run after a series of stolen bases, leveling the score at 2-2.
The momentum shifted during the third inning when Shamburger stole home, giving Calera a 3-2 lead. The Eagles continued to build on their advantage, with Brooklyn Taylor and Schilleci both hitting doubles, and Rodgers contributing a single that drove in another run. Shamburger then capped the inning with an inside-the-park home run, extending the lead to 7-2.
While Stanhope Elmore attempted to mount a comeback, they managed only one more run, ending the game at 7-3. Rodgers once again proved her worth on the mound, completing the game and allowing just one run on six hits, along with two strikeouts.
With these two victories, Calera concluded the month of February on a positive note, setting the stage for upcoming area play in March. The Eagles demonstrated their capacity to rebound from adversity, showcasing both their offensive strength and defensive resilience in the face of challenges.
