Late Push Falls Short as Bethel Drops DH to Central Baptist

MCKENZIE, Tenn. — Bethel battled in both contests but came up just short in a doubleheader loss to Central Baptist (AR), falling 4-3 in each game Tuesday at the Kahlden Complex and Lady Wildcat Park.

In game one, Bethel kept things tight throughout, collecting five hits and getting solid production from the middle of the lineup. Kinsley Nichols scored twice and reached base with a walk, while Riley Sharp and Emma McKenzie each drove in a run. The Lady Wildcats trailed 1-0 early but responded to take a brief lead before Central Baptist answered late. A two-run push by the visitors proved to be the difference, as Bethel stranded five runners and couldn't find the equalizer in the final frame.

Chanley Price got the start in the circle, tossing four innings and allowing just one run (unearned) while striking out three. Amelia Sherrill worked the final three innings but was tagged for three runs as Central Baptist capitalized on timely hits from Kori Truelove and Casi Saunders.

 Game two followed a similar script, with Bethel again fighting back but unable to complete the comeback in a 4-3 loss. Fallyn Jordan led the offense with two hits and two runs scored, while Kinsley Nichols delivered a two-RBI performance. Kayleigh Dunn also added an RBI as Bethel totaled seven hits in the nightcap. Central Baptist jumped out to an early 2-0 lead before Bethel answered in the second inning to tie the game. The score remained even until the sixth, when Central Baptist plated two runs that ultimately stood as the difference.

Maleyia Prather started in the circle, allowing two runs over two innings, while Kinsley Caruthers provided a strong relief effort with four strikeouts across five innings. Despite the pair of narrow losses, Bethel showed resilience throughout both games, putting themselves in position late each time.

 "We competed pitch for pitch today, but we didn't execute in the key moments," said Head Coach Craig Massey. "Against a solid team like Central Baptist, those small things make the difference. I'm proud of how we kept fighting, but we've got to be sharper finishing games."

 Bethel will look to bounce back as they jump back into conference play later this week. The Cats travel to Freed-Hardeman Friday and Saturday for three key MSC games.