If Mater Lakes Academy starting pitcher Alexis Castroman continues her stellar performance, the Lady Bears could win the district championship and make a deep run in the playoffs.
In a pivotal district game against Pace High, Castroman pitched a complete game, striking out six batters with no earned runs, as the Lady Bears defeated their district rivals 5-2.
The win puts Mater Lakes Academy (8-6) in second place of the district and a chance to win the division with a week left in the regular season.
Castroman (2.15 ERA) struck out a Spartans’ pitcher with a runner on first base to end the game.
“It was a great win for us,” she said. “The whole team played together, we knew what had to be done.”
Melanie Arauz led the bears with a double, triple and four RBIs.
Castroman, Hailey Rivera, Alyssa Rodriguez, Samantha Herranz and Arlene Calleriro each had a hit for the Lady Bears.
The girls’ success on the diamond is attributed to their experience as Miami Lakes Optimist Club recreational program players.
The organization is a feeder to many local area high schools.
“Everywhere you look, when you see the high school box scores, you will find Miami Lakes Optimist girls there, something the Optimist Club is extremely proud of,” said softball commissioner Alex Castroman, Alexis’ father.