Sunday, May 01, 2011

MACON, Ga. – Mercer pitchers Kassie Bailey, Jenni Holtz and Kari Chambers allowed just eight hits in two games as the Mercer softball team swept Kennesaw State Saturday afternoon at Sikes Field. The Bears captured 2-1 and 1-0 victories, clinching a berth in the upcoming conference tournament.

With the wins, Mercer improved to 28-22 (10-10 A-Sun) while Kennesaw State dropped to 28-25 (10-10 A-Sun). Mercer's pair of victories slotted the team as the fifth seed in the conference tournament, set for May 11-14 in Spartanburg, S.C.

Senior Anna Johnson stole a base in both games, moving her season total to 27 stolen bases. Johnson's 27 steals established a new single season record, surpassing Kristi Hopkins' mark of 26 steals in 2000.

In game one, Bailey earned the start in the circle and scattered four hits over four innings of work. Bailey's effort included four strikeouts and secured her third win of the season.