Gateway softball pitcher Brooke Fairman fires a pitch to the plate off the mound Tuesday. (Photo by Chris Putz)
HUNTINGTON – It took nearly five years for Gateway Regional senior ace Brooke Fairman and the Gators’ softball team to reach the pinnacle of success on the diamond against one familiar rival.
Gateway defeated Easthampton for the first time in close to a decade, 4-1, Tuesday at home.
“This was a huge lift for us,” Gateway coach Mike Mason said. “Everyone contributed.”
Gateway (3-1) jumped out to a 4-0 lead over the first four innings with three early runs from Jaime Pease, who reached twice on base hits and on an error. Pease scored on singles from Becca Wolfe (1st inning) and Arielle Baillargeon (3rd inning), and manufactured her own run in the fourth inning with a base hit, two stolen bases, and run scored on a passed ball. Wolfe also scored in the third.
Fairman proved to be effective on the mound. She scattered five hits, struck out six batters and walked one in a complete game effort.
The Gateway pitcher had a no-hitter through the first three innings, and the Gators provided a sensational effort on defense with leaping grabs, diving catches, and all-out solid efforts all-around.
“Our strength all season has been playing solid defense, getting our pitcher off the mound quickly and cleanly, and keeping the game close,” coach Mason said. “We have not hit the ball well, but we’re hitting at the right times.
Gateway’s other victories have included a 16-1 rout of Lee and 14-8 win over Ware. Through the first four games of the season, Wolfe and Pease each have batting averages close to .400.
“Once all of our players starting hitting, we’re going to be a very good team,” coach Mason said.
Mason said Fairman, who has been a starting pitcher since eighth grade, has even improved.
“Brooke is getting even better,” Mason said. “She had a personal coach in the offseason for the first time, and it’s paying dividends. If she puts in the extra effort, she is going to do that at the next level.
But first thing is first for Fairman and her team. Next up for the Gators (3-1): Palmer on Thursday at 1 p.m. They close out the week against McCann Tech Friday at 1.
