There are high expectations for the Orange softball team this season. The Panthers return the top three pitchers in its rotation from last year, including senior Ryan Hench and junior Cross Clayton. On Monday night, the Panthers started the season strong with a 13-1 win over East Chapel Hill in five innings at Panther Field. 1st baseman Connor Nordan went 3-for-3 with five RBIs, including a two-run single to drive in the first two runs of the season in the first inning. Later, Nordan had a double to right field that brought in Jackson Berini and Hench. Clayton earned the ninth win of his career, scattering only two hits in four innings. He struck out seven as the Panthers won its season-opener for the third straight year. Last season, Nordan was one of the most reliable hitters for the Panthers. He hit .400 with a team-high 32 hits. He also had 25 RBIs, one behind Ryan Hench’s total of 26 for the team lead. Clayton emerged as the Panthers strong second starter last season as a sophomore. Last year, Clayton went 8-3 with a 2.59 ERA. He led the team in wins. Orange will continue its season on Wednesday night when they face Northern Durham at Knights Field at 6PM. You can hear that game on Hillsboroughsports.com.
Orange’s Cross Clayton & Connor Nordan discuss baseball win over East Chapel Hill
There are high expectations for the Orange softball team this season. The Panthers return the top three pitchers in its rotation from last year, including senior Ryan Hench and junior Cross Clayton. On Monday night, the Panthers started the season strong with a 13-1 win over East Chapel Hill in five innings at Panther Field.