M Softball loses in exhibition game to Dutch National Team

The Univerisity of Michigan lost to the Dutch National Team today by a score of 7-1.  Hilary Payne took the loss by giving up 2 earned runs off 6 hits in 3 innings of work.  Stehpanie Speiermen gave up 1 ER off 6 hits in 3 innings of relief.  She stuck out 4 and walked 2.

The offense was led by Bree Evans who went 1 for 3, scored the lone UM run.  She also had a stolen base.  Amanda Chidester went 1 for 3 and the only RBI.

The Dutch were led by American Lindsey Meadows who was a pitcher for the LA Tech Uninveristy softball team.  She has been playing professional ball for 6 years.

EDIT:  The Michigan underclassmen also committed 4 errors which resulted in 4 unearned runs.  The Dutch only scored 3 earned runs.

Hutch took the opportunity to give Jordan Taylor and Dorian Shaw a much needed break.  It was a good opportunity for some of the underclassmen to get their first start for the Wolverines.  Fr Mandy Powers, Fr Lindsay Doyle, and Fr. Brandi Virgil all started for UM.  No seniors and only 1 junior played today.  Ther rest were So, and Fr.

This game showed the real class in Hutch.  She new that this was an exhibition game and instead of going for a meaningless win, she wanted to get the Freshmen in as starters.  These girls will probably not start, let alone get much playing tim, the rest of the season.  If Hutch can make it deep into the World Series, she is COY in my book.

Now for all you MGoBloggers who say that Michigan hasnt played anyone, dont get out the "see I told you so" card.  Every game is not a "must-win" game (gulp).  I know it is difficult for people to believe this, but it is true.  Of course every coach plays to win every single pitch.  However, there are times where a coach needs to see what the underclassmen can do in an exhibition game.  This game is meaningless.  I dont even think the stats will be entered in the record books. 

There have been many games where I have played girls in different positions just to get a look.  I had one game where my starting catcher ask me to pitch in one game.  She was a pitcher in summer ball when she was younger.  So there was an opportunity in a tourney to let her pitch.  It was the highlight of her life to that point.  I told her parents that she "might" be pitching and dont miss this game.  Her parents and I were so proud of her.  I will never forget the look of fear in her eyes when I announced the line up and the smile when I gave her the game ball in a 7-1 win.  It is those moments that make coaching worth while.

Great job Hutch.  We are all proud of you.