Frazier, Yousey step up for Cavs as SGU stays alive in world series

Devon Frazier struck out eight and gave up only on earned run in a complete game effort for St. Gregory’s in the NAIA Softball World Series on Saturday.

The Cavaliers built on that and survived an elimination game, defeating Simpson (Calif.), 3-2, and moving on in the bracket.

SGU coach D.J. Sanchez said the senior’s performance was key to the victory.

“Devon Frazier came out and threw one of the best games we’ve seen throw in a long time,” Sanchez said.  “She was on her game.

“Devon didn’t have any hard hit balls.  She was really working the knees and her change up looked good and her rise ball was unbelievable.”

The Cavs put runs on the board early, putting the shut out from the day before quickly in the rearview mirror.

SGU’s leading hitter, Randy Yousey, singled in the first for her first hit of the tournament, and Whitney Anderson reached base after Yousey.

Brooklyn Sparks double sent them both in to give the Cavs a two-run lead that they would keep through five innings.

Caitlin O’Hagan homered to lead off the sixth and the run proved to be the game-winner for SGU.

The Redhawks got two back in the bottom of the inning, but only one earned with the second coming on a wild throw.

Sanchez said her team isn’t playing in its usual form.

“Those two runs she gave up – our defense just needs to clean up a little bit,” Sanchez said.  “There were some hits that Devon gave up that typically aren’t hits, that got through the infield that typically we make plays on.  I think we’re seeing a little nervousness coming out of some of our younger kids, but there isn’t any more time for nerves.

“I think they’ve had two games to shake them out and I think we’re going to move forward and get better.”

Meanwhile, Yousey went 2-for-3 on the day and her second hit was a milestone hit.

Yousey’s single in the third mark her 100th hit of the season, putting her in 10th place on the NAIA list of hits in a single season.

“Randy has had such an unbelievable season,” Sanchez said.  “She has been our spark plug and she has really come through for us time and time again.  And she did it again.

“It’s just exciting to see all of her hard work pay off and what she’s done this season.  And we’re excited that we get her back next year.  What she had done so far has been unbelievable, not just offensively, but defensively as well.  Offensively, obviously we have the number to show it.  She’s really had a banner season.”

The Cavaliers next play Monday morning at 10:00 locally (9 a.m. CDT) against Lindsey-Wilson (Ky.)

Sanchez said she hopes a little rest will help her team in preparation for the contest.

“We hope to come out on Monday and get those bats woken up.  They were better against Simpson and we hope they’re better on Monday.”