Molly Zinecker had four hits and scored three runs, as the Republic Lady Tigers romped to a 13-1 victory on the road at Carthage in their Central Ozark Conference opener. Zinecker also drove in two runs for the Lady Tigers, who racked up 19 hits against Carthage pitcher Megan Tyler.
Coach Lee Dishman says Zinecker has provided an offensive spark since trading lineup spots with Caty Eby, moving from the number-two slot to the leadoff role.
“Molly at the leadoff has really helped us. She’s getting on base and that really helps us all the time,” Dishman says. Molly’s quick; she can bunt; she can hit; she can do it all if she needs to.”
Morgan Cantrell had a big game for Republic, as well. She had three hits, scored three times, and drove home two runs. Lauren Strobel also three hits for the Lady Tigers. Kami Holt, Emily Hall, Taylor Gold, and Abby Norris had two hits apiece.
Rachel Rook was dominant in the pitching circle. She struck out 13 batters, and at one time she retired 14 batters in a row. Carthage didn’t manage a hit until the bottom of the 6th inning.
“They just couldn’t touch her tonight, because she had the velocity and had the movement going,” says Dishman. “She pitched a really good game. They came out swinging and Rachel took advantage of it.”
Republic is 3-1 this season; they’re 1-0 in COC play. Their next game is Monday at home against Cassville. Carthage falls to 3-5.
