Judy tosses perfect game for North Putnam

BAINBRIDGE -- In the third start of her career, North Putnam freshman Taylor Judy reached one of the ultimate goals for a pitcher, tossing a perfect game in the Cougars' 18-0 five-inning defeat of Eminence Thursday.

Judy struck out nine of the 15 batters she faced while yielding no base runners all evening.

After two strong outings on Monday and Tuesday against Greencastle, Judy had 17 good innings under her belt, but an 0-2 record to show for it. She made up for it on Thursday, though.

Cougar coach Jim Brothers thought it was good for his entire team to pick up the victory.

"Taylor was really strong. It was good for our confidence to get that win," Brothers said.

The Cougars scored their 18 runs on 10 hits, so Brothers said his team did a good job of staying focused when the Eel pitchers were missing the strike zone.

Dakota Malayer and Judy each had a double and three RBI. Ashley Curry had two singles and three RBI. Leah Crosby also collected a pair of singles.

The coach was pleased with the way his team improved in several areas of the game after Wednesday's practice, noting that their defense, base running and patience at the plate were all sharp on Thursday.

The Cougars (1-2, 0-2 WCC) host conference rival Speedway at 5 p.m. Monday.