Writer Measures Parker and Gets Fit for a Collar : Softball: Times staffer learns just how difficult it is to hit La Canada right-hander.

OK, Lindsay Parker. Let’s see what you’ve got.

Times staff writer Paige Leech brought an aluminum bat and a good-natured challenge to La Canada High this week for a showdown with Parker, the Spartans’ superb senior right-hander.

Parker, who has mowed down the competition this season, is headed to Fresno State on scholarship. Leech is a former Fresno State player. Call it the Battle of the Bulldogs.

Like many sportswriters, Leech reacted with raised eyebrows as line scores trickled in over the season: A no-hitter by Parker. A perfect game by Parker. Seventeen strikeouts by Parker.

This girl can’t be unhittable.

After swinging in vain at about a dozen of Parker’s offerings, Leech wasn’t so sure. Still, she remained determined and dug in.

“I have to hit the ball,” Leech said.

Parker, who has pitched 28 no-hitters in her four-year career, displayed her mastery by shuffling the pitches in her repertoire. Fastball, screwball, change. Leech got a good . . . well, glimpse of each as they rocketed by.

Swing and a miss. Foul tip. Swing and a miss.

Parker’s deliveries made Leech appear awkward at times. But Leech maintained her balance--and sense of humor.

“I’m warming up,” she said. “I can feel it.”

After 15 minutes of managing only to foul off about a dozen pitches, Leech succeeded in hitting a couple in play, including a soft line drive into right field.

Was that a hit?

“My second baseman would have gotten that one,” Parker said.

Actually, the performance was par for the course against Parker. But not satisfying to Leech.

“Obviously, she was unhittable,” Leech said. “I expected to get a couple of good hits, I really did. I wanted to take her deep.”