It took seven games for the Harlan County Lady Bears to win for the second time in 2022. It has taken only two games in 2023.
The Lady Bears ran their record to 2-0 on the season with a 5-1 win Saturday at Cumberland Gap, Tenn. Harlan County pounded out 13 hits in the win, led by senior outfielder Halle Raleigh with a two-run homer and a single. Halanah Shepherd also drove in two runs with three singles. Haley Austin and Lesleigh Brown added two singles each. Jade Burton had a double. Brittleigh Estep, Jenna Wilson and Madison Blair added one single each. Josalyn Lee scored two runs.
“I was very impressed with our performance at the plate today,” Harlan County coach Shelby Burton said. “When you face pitching like Cumberland Gap you never really know what to expect offensively. Hitting was the main area we focused on during the offseason, and the girls are starting to see their hard work pay off.”
Lacey Gulley started in the circle for Cumberland Gap and gave up three runs on eight hits in 3 1/3 innings with one strikeout. Kerry Dixon allowed two runs on five hits in 3 2/3 innings,with four strikeouts.
Blair was dominant for Harlan County as she pitched a three-hitter with 10 strikeouts and only one walk.
“Maddy pitched a great game today. We’re only two games in to the season, but I can already see the growth from her off season work,” Burton said. “She’s taking it personal on the mound, and I love that about her.”
Harlan County returns to action Monday at home against Knox Central.