UTSA softball took the win against Michigan State University 7-4 in a captivating debut matchup Thursday at Roadrunner Field.
The Roadrunners (8-3) operated as a united front delivering a strong defensive performance to claim the win alongside taking advantage of crucial errors made by the Spartans (3-7) to stay ahead. Freshman infielder Skylar Rucker was a standout player as she contributed heavily both offensively and defensively. She led the game by scoring three runs, the most of any player while also tying senior utility Jaylen Prichard for most hits with two.
At a 4-4 standstill, UTSA reclaimed the lead at the bottom of the fourth inning after a solid play by Rucker. Her hit to center field allowed senior outfielder Lindsey Davis to round home base and score, earning the ‘Runners’ first RBI. Prichard followed up by obtaining the team’s second RBI, bringing Rucker home and putting the ‘Runners ahead 6-4.
The Roadrunners defense made its mark as it kept the Spartans scoreless in the second and third inning while its offense extended their lead by scoring two runs. The ‘Runners benefited from a field error by Michigan State when a hit from junior pitcher Katia Reyes to first base sent the Spartans scrambling to grab the ball after failing to catch it. The chaos allowed senior utility Crislyne Moreno and Rucker to run home and score.
UTSA remained calm throughout the game as its defense took the spotlight, refusing to let Michigan State take the lead. The ‘Runners recorded 21 putouts compared to Michigan State’s 18, showcasing UTSA’s control and efficacy on the field.
Despite loading up the bases in the sixth inning, the Spartans were unable to get past the ‘Runners. Moreno made a key defensive play, cutting down utility Collette Allen right before she got to the plate with a quick catch. Freshman Reagan Stoudt ended Michigan State’s threat by striking out outfielder Kendall Smiley. The Roadrunners defense kept the pressure up as Rucker caught the Spartans’ final ball of the inning, effectively extinguishing any hopes of a comeback.
Michigan State entered the game averaging over five runs per contest, but the Roadrunners held them to four. Overall, the Spartans collected six defensive errors throughout the game, while the ‘Runners left the field with none.
UTSA will continue the Roadrunner Classic against the University of St. Thomas at noon Saturday at Roadrunner Field.
English
Spanish