For generations, sons followed their fathers into play at the Newton Mexican-American Men’s Fast-Pitch Softball Tournament.
Friday at Kelsch Field, a few daughters followed in the footsteps of their elders.
Newton Los Traviesos opened play with a pair of females in the starting lineup, possibly a first for the tournament in 61 editions.
Former Newton High School and Hesston College pitcher Heather Torres took the mound for Los Traviesos in an 11-0 loss to the Hutchinson Angels. Darion Jaso played first base for Los Traviesos.
Torres gave up 11 runs, eight earned, on 12 hits with no walks and a strikeout.
“I don’t think there’s ever been a girl pitch at this tournament,” Torres said. “I was pretty nervous. I never played against guys before. It was a little scary for me. I just went out and tried my best.”
Torres said family connections led to her pitching. “My uncle (Gordy Torres) put this team together and he wanted me to pitch,” Heather Torres said. “It was new for me. I knew a lot of the guys could hit pretty good. I just tried to hit my corners.”
Angels pitcher Luis Aleman held Los Traviesos to two hits, striking out four.
Chris Marquez, Bobby Fisher, Mark Mura and Arnaldo Pina had two hits each for the Angels. Fisher, Aleman, Courtney Stewart and Pina each had two RBIs.
The Angels took the lead with a run in the first inning and four runs in the second inning, posting seven hits in the first two innings. The Angels scored six runs in the bottom of the third.
The tournament continues Saturday at Kelsch Field, Washington Road Field and Centennial Park.
HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES — This year’s Hall of Fame class includes Jim Arellano of Newton, Andy Ramirez of Wichita, Ronnie Escobar of Topeka, Sal Ortega of Topeka; and brothers Fidel (Wowie) Sauceda and Rick Sauceda, both of the Kansas City (Kan.) Argentine Eagles. Also honored was past Newton Mexican-American Atheltic Club president Reynaldo Gonzalez.
Game one
Newton 000 0 —0 2 2
Hutch 146 x —11 12 0
H.Torres (L) and McAfee; Aleman (W) and Chavez.
