By ALBERT VILLEGAS
Special to the NEWS
The San Benito Lady ’Hound Varsity Softball Team is putting together an impressive campaign after seven games as their 5-2-1 record attests.
Lady ’Hound Head Coach Kristy Leal and her four-member assistant coaching staff have combined veterans with newcomers on the field, and, so far, it has worked for them.
“We have a young team coming back with a total of nine sophomores and three freshmen added to the mix,” Leal said. “With four available arms to utilize in the circle, we have some versatility and different looks that each opponent may see.”
San Benito won its season opener against Raymondville (14-0).
During the Lady ’Hounds’ first tournament from Feb. 13-15 at PSJA, they beat PSJA North (5-2), tied Laredo United South (8-8), beat Zapata (3-2), lost to PSJA (4-1), then defeated Edinburg (9-3) and Palmview (16-4).
They then played PSJA in a non-district game and lost 4-1.
Coach Leal said there are players who are showing their mettle early on.
“Some key players that should be difference makers this season include senior/catcher Jozanna Montes, who brings a ton of power at the plate and huge presence defensively as our starter,” Leal said.
Sophomore pitcher Arielle Hernandez has grown from her freshman campaign and has become “a force in the circle,” Leal added.
Sophomore middle infielders Evelynn Hinojosa and Arianna Rodriguez have been impressive defensively, showcasing their range and arm strength at second base and shortstop, Leal said.
The addition of freshman third baseman Isabella Gonzalez and freshman first baseman/pitcher Annalise Rodriguez complete the Lady ’Hounds’ infield. “Although young, both girls are able to hold their own at their respective positions and have been an excellent asset to the team,” Leal said.
Sophomore returners Megan Medina and Eliza Gallegos are continuing to see time in the outfield.
“They are doing a great job as our last solid line of defense,” Leal said.
San Benito will take its talents to Corpus Christi when it competes in the Bayfront Bash.
Leal said the teams they are competing against are to prepare the Lady ’Hounds for District 32-6A play, which begins March 18 at home against Brownsville Hanna. Their district finale is at home against Harlingen on April 17.
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