Pioneers conclude Florida trip with back-to-back triumphs

LEESBURG, FL – The University of Wisconsin-Platteville softball team emerged victorious in two close shutouts to improve to 12-2 on the season by the end of the team's spring break trip. The Pioneers defeated Chicago 1-0 prior to defeating Monmouth 2-0. 

Against Chicago, freshman leadoff hitter Mia Savage homered in the first inning to score what would be the game's lone run.  

Junior Taylor Roughen (8-0) pitched her fifth complete game, and third shutout, striking out four, walking three and allowing three hits. 

In the nightcap against Monmouth (1-11), sophomore Calli Storms' single up the middle in the fourth inning scored one run. Two batters later, Savage singled to second base to run in the second run of the game. Two innings later, the tying runs were left stranded on first and second bases and the Pioneers finished the game with the 2-0 lead intact. 

Sophomore Carlie Jo Brownlee (3-2) captured the win and pitched the first 5.1 innings striking out four, walking two and allowing one hit. Sophomore Jaena Michalak secured her second save of the season and pitched the final inning, striking out two, walking none and allowing one hit. 

The Pioneers return to action on Sunday, March 24 when they take on Simpson College in a doubleheader for their home opener. First game is scheduled for 1 p.m. at the UW-Platteville Softball Complex. 

*As with every UW-Platteville win this year, the Platteville A&W will be offering a $3 Pioneer burger the day after the win and the Platteville Taco John's will be offering 10 tacos for $10 the day after each Pioneer win.