American beats Krop softball.(American High School; Dr. Michael Krop Senior High School)

Byline: Judy Erwin

Mar. 10--American continued its hot streak by beating district rival Krop 14-4 on Friday at Palm Springs North Park. The win brings the Patriots' record to 11-0 at the halfway point of their season, making them one of the few undefeated teams left in the county. Dade's southern teams have dominated the county as long as fast-pitch softball has been around. With a roster full of girls who play year-round, it is not surprising that teams like Palmetto and Southwest consistently have successful seasons. Although American does not expect to contend for a state title, the Patriots are hoping to surprise some of the south teams once the playoffs come around. Last season, Hialeah fell one run short of knocking out Varela in the regional semifinal. While the T-Breds will still be one of the top teams in District 14, the Patriots have already proven that they are the team to beat in District 13. However, an undefeated record doesn't make the playoffs any easier. After playing a schedule where a good portion of the games were five-inning romps, the games against the fast-pitching, hard-hitting south teams are tough. While the south teams face that level of play for the bulk of their season, the teams from the north do not even get to see that kind of team until the playoffs. The Patriots, reluctant to head into the postseason unprepared, scheduled Ferguson, a team that is sure to put their undefeated record to the test. "We already know that the pitching is going to be our hardest challenge," Patriots coach Jolene Padro said. "Our defense is great, but we don't get to see that kind of pitching too often." Offensively, the Patriots have plenty of power and speed. Tammy Hassan and Denise Prieto both blasted balls over the left fielder's head for home runs in the victory against Krop. The Barrios sisters combined for three runs and three stolen bases. Patriots starting pitcher Jessica Abraham walked one batter in the game. SOUTHWEST 1, LOURDES 0 Southwest 000 001 0 --1 5 2 Lourdes 000 000 0 --0 5 0 WP: Heidi Pena (7-1). LP: Diana Rojas. Top performers: Brizeiry Hernandez went 2 for 3 with the game winning RBI. Pena pitched a complete game. Records: Sou 8-1.

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