Goodbye, Good Luck and Thank you, Peyton Pepkowski

I remember the first time I saw Peyton Pepkowski pitch for the Loyola Ramblers. Four seasons wet by so quickly. I can't believe I just saw her pitch for the last time in the maroon and gold.

Pepkowski went 54-58 with a 3.00 ERA in her four seasons. She also eclipsed the 600 strikeout mark, striking out 696 in 714.2 innings. That's almost a strikeout an inning. Opponents hit only .229, which is the standout stat. No disrespect to the Ramblers, but with better run support, Pepkowski would definitely have even better stats. It was always a pleasure watching Pepkowski deal on the mound.

More important as she moves on with life, Pepkowski is a tremendous person. She always had time for a quick chat and picture. She always thanked me for my coverage and support. I'm going to miss Pepkowski on the field and I'll miss her presence at Loyola.

I thank her for many great memories on the field. I wish her the best of life wherever it takes her.

For more info on the Ramblers, go to loyolaramblers.com. Also check here for my coverage of the 'blers.

Peyton Pepkowski and me in Chicago, IL-March 2025.

Peyton Pepkowski and Loyola Ramblers

Women's college softball is starting. Once again, I will be covering the Loyola Ramblers.

Pitcher Peyton Pepkowski finished her first season with a solid record of 12-13 and a 2.85 ERA, with 15 complete games and 166 strikeouts and 48 walks. That's even better looking when you see she pitched for a team that finished 17-30. With better run support, Pepkowski could have easily won 18-20 games.

Last season, I had the pleasure of interviewing Pepkowski about her first season. I also spoke with Loyola Head Coach Alicia Abbott. Those interviews can be found at On the Beat With Loyola Softball.

I can't wait until the Ramblers home opener Saturday, March 25. It will be great to be back watching softball.

Go to LoyolaRamblers.com for more info. Also, check here and EveryDayFan.com for my recurring coverage.

Peyton Pepkowski and me in Chicago, IL-April 2022.

On the Beat With Loyola Softball

Loyola had a scheduled double header last Saturday, but the storms caused the second game to be suspended. Rain suspended the second game. The continued game on Sunday went eight innings, ending with a 7-6 win. Andie Broniewicz got the win in relief of Sydney Ruggles. Broniewicz went six inning, only giving up three runs to improve to 4-11. Nova Sinskul and Teagan Sopczak led the way with two RBIs each. Abbey Jacobsen, Haley Wallace, Barnett and Hannah Nalley each had an RBI, with Sinskul's being the game-winner.

The second game saw Loyola take a tough 2-1 loss. Peyton Pepkowski was the rough luck loser, pitching three innings and allowing only one unearned run. Pepkowski fell to 11-11. The lone RBI went to Ebeling.

After the games, I got quick interviews with Coach Alicia Abbott and Pepkowski. I apologize for the noisy wind, but it gives a great indication of how windy and cold it was for these players all weekend. The interviews can be found at On the Beat With Loyola Softball.

I asked Coach Abbott to discuss her departing seniors. I asked Pepkowski about her first collegiate season.

Despite the harsh conditions, I soaked in the last minutes of Loyola's regular season home games. It's sad to be done with games. I already look forward to next season.

Go to LoyolaRamblers.com for more info on Loyola sports. Check back here for my recurring coverage of the Ramblers.