Bald Eagle softball falls to top-seeded Bedford, closes season in District 6 Class AAA semis

BEDFORD - While Bald Eagle softball overcame one of its biggest regular-season obstacles on Monday, that shutout win over Huntingdon pitted it against an 18-1 buzzsaw in Bedford - the top-seeded team in District 6 Class AAA. Perhaps there's a reality where that momentum translated into another surprise, but it wasn't this one.

Through five innings, the Bisons racked up 15 hits, led by a combined seven from Leah Nee and Annalise Van Horn. Those hits helped Bedford rack up runs in droves, mostly notably scoring five in the second to go up 7-0, as it run-ruled the Eagles in five, 10-0, to advance to the District 6 Class AAA championship and clinch a PIAA bid.

It's been quite some time since Bald Eagle (15-7) hasn't made a district final, a testament to their strength as a program. Apart from the cancelled COVID season, it's the first time the Eagles won't appear in states since 2018.

While the Bisons scored in droves, Bedford starting pitcher Emma Byers kept Bald Eagle's offense from answering, scattering three hits and issuing a lone walk while striking out six batters.

Maelee Yoder, Harlee Witherite and Hayley Simpson were the lone Eagles to post a hit, with Casey Angellotti also fighting for a walk. The silver lining was two of those hits - a Yoder double and Simpson triple - granted Bald Eagle extra bases.

It's a tough way to close out a campaign, especially when coming off a state championship appearance. But considering all the Eagles parted ways with after last season, them making it this far and overcoming Huntingdon certainly gives the current group something to be proud about.

Heading into next season, the program does part ways with some key players - three-year starting shortstop Addisyn Burns and two first-year starters in the outfield - Casey Angellotti and Hayley Simpson. But with much of their developing core returning, there's reason to be optimistic for the future.

Bedford 10, Bald Eagle 0 (5 innings)

(DISTRICT 6 CLASS AAA SOFTBALL SEMIFINAL)

Bald Eagle 000 00 - 0 3 1

Bedford 251 11 – 10 15 0

Top Bald Eagle hitters: Hayley Simpson 1-1, 3B; Maelee Yoder 1-2, 2B; Harlee Witherite 1-2; Casey Angellotti BB. Top Bedford hitters: Leah Nee 4-4, HR, 2B, 3 RBIs, 3 runs; Annalise Van Horn 3-3, HR, 3 RBIs, 2 runs; Sammi Shoemaker 2-2, 2B, 2 runs; Emma Byers 1-3, HR, 2 RBIs, run; Rebekah Costal 1-3, 2B, 2 RBIs.