GARDINER — So far this spring, Gardiner softball is 4-0. The Tigers have most of their players back from last year, and they’re enjoying their strong start.
“We have some really good chemistry on our team,” Gardiner pitcher Kristal Smith said. “I think other teams notice that when they see us dancing in the dugout or screaming at the top of our lungs. We’re just happy, and we bring a lot of energy on the field. Even when people aren’t in the game, they’re sitting on the bench, everyone’s supportive.”
Smith might add that Gardiner also has a pretty dominant ace pitcher. On Wednesday afternoon, Smith threw a no-hitter with 16 strikeouts in an 11-0 victory over Nokomis.
It was the second straight time a Gardiner pitcher no-hit the Warriors. Brittany Rollins did the trick against Nokomis in last year’s Eastern B playoffs.
With Rollins gone to graduation, Smith is handling the pitching this season. She had thrown six innings and shut out Maranacook with a one-hitter on Tuesday.
“I’ve mentally prepared myself in advance to get myself in the mindset that I have to bring it every day, no matter who we’re playing,” Smith said.
On Wednesday, Smith was wearing her jacket, throwing between innings — anything to get warm. She eventually got comfortable, and by that time Gardiner’s offense had provided her a big lead. The Tigers scored five runs in the first inning and one in the second, finishing off with five in the fifth.
Lauren Chadwick homered and singled for the Tigers (4-0). Mikayla Shaw added four hits, including two doubles. Morgan Carver also had two doubles. Logan Granholm, Lauren Boyington, and Smith each had two hits apiece.
Nokomis is 1-2.
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