Buford holds off Mountain View rally in Region 8-AAAAAAA softball opener

• From Staff Reports  Aug 24, 2023
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BUFORD — Buford held off a furious Mountain View comeback for a 4-3 victory Thursday in the teams’ Region 8-AAAAAAA opener.

The Wolves led 4-1 heading into the seventh inning before Mountain View scored twice to get within 4-3. The Bears had a runner on third base when a groundout ended the game.

Buford (8-0) got a complete game from Caroline Stanton (4-0), who struck out 16, allowed five hits, walked seven and gave up three runs (two earned).

The Wolves were led at the plate by Mackenzie Pickens, who was 2-for-3 with two home runs, three RBIs and two runs. The homers were her eighth and ninth of the season.

Madison Pickens went 1-for-2 with a home run, her sixth of the season. She scored two runs, walked twice and stole a base. Tavye Borders (1-for-2, walk) and Addie Rackley (1-for-2, walk) also chipped in for the victors.

Mountain View was led by Sarah Kate Sportsman, who was 2-for-2 with two walks. Jahnnie Patterson, Rylie Smith and Chloe Jones had singles.

Riley Ashby pitched two scoreless innings of relief for the Bears (6-4-1).