Herkimer Softball Drops Doubleheader to Monroe University

The Herkimer Generals softball team battled offensively in Game 1 but ultimately dropped both ends of a doubleheader to Monroe University on Saturday, falling 13-8 and 18-0.

Herkimer opened the scoring in the first game when Neville grounded out to bring home the game's first run in the opening inning. Monroe quickly answered in the bottom half, erupting for eight runs on six hits to take control early. The big swing came from Pugliese, who launched a three-run home run to center field during the inning.

Monroe continued to add on in the second as Zambrano singled in a run before O'Daniels delivered a two-run double. An error in the third inning helped extend the Mustangs' lead to 12-4.

Despite the deficit, the Generals continued to battle offensively. Kelly highlighted the comeback effort with a two-run home run to left field in the fifth inning and finished with three RBIs. Broderick paced Herkimer with three hits, while Neville added two hits in four at-bats.

Kelly also drew two walks as the Generals showed patience at the plate, collecting five walks overall.

Perry took the loss in the circle after striking out five over four innings.

Monroe totaled 15 hits in the opener, led by leadoff hitter Surratt, who went 4-for-4. Zambrano, Surratt, and Pugliese each drove in three runs for the Mustangs.

In Game 2, Monroe's offense stayed red hot in an 18-0 victory.

The Mustangs jumped ahead in the first inning after Zambrano doubled home a run and Reyes followed with a two-run homer. Shuman later added an RBI single to make it 4-0.

Monroe broke the game open in the second inning when Zambrano blasted a three-run home run to center field. The Mustangs then exploded for 11 runs in the fourth inning, powered by 12 hits. Pugliese connected on a three-run homer, Davis added a two-run shot, and several other RBI hits fueled the rally.

Molter recorded Herkimer's lone hit of the game.

Powers took the loss for the Generals, while Thomson earned the win for Monroe after throwing four hitless innings with six strikeouts.

Monroe finished with 19 hits in Game 2. Zambrano and Reyes each collected four hits, while Zambrano drove in four runs. The Mustangs also pressured the bases all afternoon, stealing five bases in the contest.