The Cubs used their gloves to win.

Defense made last week perfect for Enterprise and Joseph’s high school softball team. It won all four games. Each time, the opposition mustered only two runs. The Cubs took advantage in three overwhelming victories: 17-2 and 16-2 at an April 16 doubleheader in Halfway, and 12-2 the next afternoon at home against Wallowa. Earlier that day, Wallowa had posed the closest challenge in a 6-2 decision but that’s when the defense was at its best. Enterprise sophomore second baseman Shelby Graning turned a double play. Senior third baseman Bailee Reimer’s strong throw in the third inning beat a potential run at home plate. Later, senior catcher Summer De Spain caught a runner trying to steal second base.

Hitting and pitching usually get most fans’ attention, but the Cubs relish fielding. “It’s my favorite part,” Graning said. “We get better each week.”

The Cubs’ winning streak increased to eight consecutive games. Their overall record boosted to 11-2. Their mark atop the district became 8-0.

Fielders supported strong pitching performances. Sophomore Katie Edison threw 12 innings and struck out 11 batters. Sophomore Whitney Schaefer worked 10 innings with 14 strikeouts.

Meanwhile, the batting lineup went ballistic. Senior Josey Kohlhepp crossed the plate nine times. She hit a home run and a double. Edison tripled, doubled and scored three runs. De Spain scored seven runs and doubled four times. Schaefer totaled seven runs and a double. Senior Mariah Warnock produced six runs and three doubles. Graning had five runs and three doubles. Junior DaLynn Roberts contributed a double and a run.

Several teammates joined in the parade. Reimer and junior Hannah Graham each tallied four runs, while junior Karli McCarthy had three. Freshman Elsa Steen and Kylie Willis each chipped in a run.

Bats smoking, the Cubs will hit the road this weekend. They will begin April 23 at Adrian. The following day, they will go to Elgin.