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Baseball

Gladiators are first to start girl

By PETE YOUNG

© St. Petersburg Times, published April 24, 2001

On Feb. 19 against Bradenton Lakewood Ranch, Gibbs' Molly McKesson became the first female to play varsity baseball in Pinellas County, and Monday against Pinellas Park, McKesson became the first to start a game, pitching four innings in a 5-2 loss to Pinellas Park.

"She's the first one ever," county athletic director Bob Hosack said.

McKesson, a freshman right-hander, walked the first batter in the fifth inning before being replaced by her brother, sophomore Kevin, who retired the final nine batters in order. Molly allowed five runs (two earned), six hits, two walks, hit one batter and did not record a strikeout in dropping to 0-2.

"I was pretty excited," said McKesson, who threw 66 pitches. "I'm just glad (coach Tim King) gave me an opportunity. A lot of coaches might not have done that.

"I did okay. I think I could've done better."

For the season, McKesson has made five appearances and pitched 11 2/3 innings while allowing 19 hits, 7 earned runs, 9 walks and recording 9 strikeouts with a 4.20 ERA.

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