The Gustavus softball team defeated Bethel College 2-0 and 6-0 at the Gustavus softball field on Monday afternoon. The doubleheader had originally been scheduled for Saturday but was postponed due to rain. The Gusties improved to 10-2 in MIAC play and are currently tied with Saint Mary’s for second place behind league leading St. Thomas at 12-0.
In game one, Gustavus would get the only run it would need in the first inning as Julie Mahre opened with a triple. Mahre scored on a single by Erin Ge two batters later. The first year duo would work their magic again in the third inning when Mahre singled, stole second and scored on a single to center by Ge. Two runs were more than enough for the Gusties as Joyce DeWitz was working on a no-hitter through six-and-a-third innings. The Royals broke up the no-hitter in the seventh when Angela Vedders and Danni Larson each singled to put runners on first and third with two outs. DeWitz was able to strike out Rachel Smith to end the rally and preserve the victory. DeWitz did not walk a batter while striking out 13.
In game two, Gutavus scored once in the second, twice in the third and three times in the fourth to take a commanding 6-0 lead. The Gusties got strong pitching from the duo of Janie Hanson and Jenna Ruhl. Hanson pitched four innings without allowing a hit or walking a batter. Ruhl pitched the final three innings allowing three hits, but no runs. Julie Mahre led the team at the plate as she went 3-for-3, with one run scored and one RBI.
The Gusties continue MIAC play with an important doubleheader against St. Thomas in St. Paul on Wednesday.