Hemann’s bat, Thome’s arm lead KoMets

Coming into the season, two of the important cogs of the Kasson-Mantorville softball team were the arm of senior pitcher Chante Thome and the bat of senior second baseman McKenzie Hemann. During their game with Pine Island on April 7, both were on display as the KoMets came from behind to earn a 4-2 victory over Pine Island.
“Between Chante’s arm and McKenzie’s bat, it gives us a chance to be in any game.” K-M softball coach Paul Mann explained. “Their experience and leadership will help us mature and stay loose as a team.”
Just like in their opener against Northfield, the KoMets got off to a slow start. While Thome was able to keep the Panthers off the board for the first three innings, K-M couldn’t find a way to pounce early. 
In the top of the fourth, the Panthers were able to strike with a pair of unearned runs to take a two-run lead. However, K-M would have an answer as Hemann slugged the first home run of the season for the KoMets over the left-center fence to cut the deficit to 2-1. They would have a chance to add to Hemann’s home run later in the inning, but would strand a pair of runners going into the fifth.
After another scoreless inning, the KoMets were able to get another rally going as they tied the game after Meredith Wright scored on a fielder’s choice off the bat of Thome. Then, with two baserunners on for Hemann’s next turn at the plate, she was able to come through as she laced a single through the left side of the diamond for her second and third RBI of the game to give K-M a 4-2 lead.
From there, Thome was able to keep the Panthers at bay over the final two innings to give the KoMets their second win of the season.