By Matt Browning

Joee Hurley of Inman has proven to be one of the best hitters in the Heart of America League this season. She hit over .400 with more than 20 hits and 20 runs driven in.

“I have fun hitting, and I like feeling the pressure that comes with it,” Hurley said. “When I move the runners or bring them home even if I get out, I know that I have done my job and it makes me proud.”

The Teutons record does not look great, but Hurley said that was not necessarily indictive of the ability on the team.

“We’ve lost a handful of games by only one run, and we have continued to improve since our first game,” Hurley said. “Obviously, I want to win every game, but I am pleased with how competitive we have been this season.”

Out of necessity, Hurley is also one of Inman’s pitchers, which is an area she has improved this season. In fact, she struck out six batters in a relief appearance against Sedgwick earlier in the season.

“Last year I was thrown into pitching because our starting pitcher was out with an injury, and this year I have had many opportunities to pitch and some of my appearances have not been as good as I wanted,” Hurley said. “But the more I do it, the better I am getting. I’ve been putting in extra time after practice to work on pitching technique and form.”