Roberts runs toward record
By Staff
Charles Prince, Hartselle Enquirer
The runner on first looks at the catcher, then she studies the pitcher. As the pitchers arm reaches the top of her windup, the runner rocks back on her heels and braces them against the first base bag. As the ball is released, the runner springs off the bag and dashes toward second base. Three quarters of the way to the base, the runner looks back at the catcher and sees there will be no throw. The runner slows and makes it to the base standing up. Just another stolen base for Kristy Roberts
Roberts, a junior at Danville High School, has stolen 84 straight without being thrown out. The total is an Alabama High School fast-pitch softball record and is in fourth place in the national record book. Lacey Clobaugh of Weatherford, Ok., holds the top spot with 117 steals consecutively. Second is Melissa Sanger of Michigan with 115 and third is Jordiana Griffen with 86.
Just 34 more steals and Roberts will hold the top spot in the nation. Danville assistant coach Rod Gillott thinks Roberts will surpass the record this summer.
"I'd say she good for at least 60 (steals) this year," Gillott said. "I think she'll definitely do it (break the record) this season."
Roberts, who was named to the Alabama All-State Super team in 2003, is excited about the propest setting a record.
"That would be great," Roberts said. "To get the national record and have the longest streak ever in the country. I would feel really good about that, it would be just great."
What's makes Roberts so good on the base paths?
"It's instincts," Gillott said. "She watches the pitcher and she knows just the right time when to go. Plus she's really fast, she can just fly."
Roberts, who ran track for two years, says the challenge of stealing bases excites her.
"I just pumped up when I'm on base," Roberts said. "I really want to steal bases. It's a thrill to steal a base."
Roberts is starting to feel pressure because of the attention the streak is receiving.
"I get nervous when I think about the streak," Roberts said. "I have had players on other teams ask me, 'Aren't you that girl with all those steals?'"
"I know the catchers are going to be ready this year. They will want to stop the streak, so it's going to be more difficult this year. It scares me a little that it might end, so I'm going to work hard and try to keep it going."
Roberts, who has posted .564 and .590 batting averages tehe past two years, thinks she can improve on that area of her game.
"I want to work on hitting left-handed," Roberts said. "I want to be able to slap the ball and get on base from the left side. I hope I can raise my average by doing that."
Roberts will get her first chance to extend the streak Monday when the Lady Hawks host the Priceville Lady Bulldogs in the 2004 season opener for both teams.
"I can't wait to get on base," Roberts said. " I'd rather steal a base than hit a home run.
Base running is my favorite part of softball."
