07/27/2026
First of all, Congrats to these Eastern National Champions on a great week! Well deserved but I have to point out one of my pitchers that played AGAINST this team earlier in the tournament….
⸻ ⸻ ⸻ ⸻ ⸻ ⸻ ⸻
🥎💙 One game doesn’t always define a pitcher… but sometimes it reminds them just how good they really are. 💙🥎
This past week, Lilly had the opportunity to pitch against one of the best teams at the USSSA 13 Open Eastern Nationals.
That team went on to accomplish something incredible—winning the Eastern National Championship with an 8-1 tournament record.
The one team that handed them their only loss…
💙 Saratoga Thunder❤️🥎
The one pitcher who stood in the circle and shut them down…
Lilly “OT” Herrick
In a true pitcher’s duel, Lilly threw a complete game, allowing just 2 hits, 1 earned run, while striking out 5, leading Thunder to a 2-1 victory over the eventual National Champions.
As a coach, this is why I love this sport.
Sometimes young athletes don’t realize what they’re capable of. They question themselves after a rough outing, compare themselves to everyone else, or wonder if they’re “good enough.” Then a moment like this happens, and it reminds them exactly who they are.
I hope Lilly never forgets this game.
Not because of the statistics.
Not because of the win.
Not even because it came against the eventual National Champions.
I hope she remembers it because it proves that when she trusts herself, competes with confidence, and attacks hitters, she can stand in the circle against any team in the country.
Confidence isn’t something someone gives you. It’s built through moments where your preparation meets opportunity.
This was one of those moments.
I’m incredibly proud of you, Lilly. 💙🥎 Keep believing in yourself. This is only the beginning. The ceiling for you is so much higher than you even realize. 💪🔥