BRISTOL — The Mount Abraham softball team jumped to a quick 11-1 lead over visiting Spaulding on Tuesday and cruised to a 15-6 victory in the Eagles’ opener.

The Eagles knocked out 10 hits, stole three bases, and took advantage of seven walks issued by Tide hurler Sydney Ferrer to pile up the offense.

They also broke out the power bats. Catcher Cami Willsey drilled a three-run homer and also singled; shortstop Lucy Parker doubled, singled, scored twice and drove in two runs; winning pitcher Eve McCormick doubled off the outfield wall and singled; and outfielder Joanna Toy drove in three runs with three hits.

Coach Donnie McCormick was pleased overall, especially that the big early lead allowed him to empty his bench. He did note the two Eagle errors and four walks issued by his relievers, but called the miscues unsurprising for a season opener.

EAGLE CATCHER CAMI Willsey makes solid contact on this pitch in Tuesday’s home opener for the Mount Abe softball team. Willsey drilled a three-run homer, singled and pitched an inning in relief in the Eagles’ big win over Spaulding.
Independent photo/Steve James

“(It was a) typical early game,” he said. “We need to be better. And we will.”

Eve McCormick pitched the first four innings for Mount Abe, allowing three runs, striking out three and walking none.

Willsey tossed one inning, allowing one run on two hits and a walk, striking out two. Payton Vincent threw two innings for the Eagles, allowing two runs on one hit and three walks. Ferrer went the distance for Spaulding, which totaled eight hits on the attack.

The Eagles are scheduled to host Burlington at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday and Fair Haven at 11 a.m. on Saturday.