JOPLIN, Mo. – Minnesota State Moorhead softball began its 10-game stretch across Missouri and Kansas on Saturday. The Dragons dropped a doubleheader with eighth-ranked Missouri Southern.
Game One
The Lions would quickly implement offense in the first inning of play, scoring two runs on two hits and a Dragon error.
Lexie Wilson would leadoff the ensuing half inning with a walk before
Lisa Garcia singled. Both runners would advance into scoring position before a single from
Kayla Roidt gave Moorhead a run. The Dragons would be unable to inflict more damage as Missouri Southern led 2-1 heading into the home half.
Missouri Southern would expand that lead back to two runs in the bottom of the second to claim a 3-1 lead. Throughout the third, fourth, fifth and sixth innings, MSUM would only be able to muster one hit, a bunt single from
Sami Macchiaroli. The Lions would translate that into four more runs to claim a 7-1 advantage heading into the final inning.
In the final half inning, Moorhead would be held without a hit as the Lions claimed the 7-1 victory.
Teagan Clemmons would strike out five batters while surrendering just two earned runs in the loss.
Game Two
Missouri Southern would strike early again in the second matchup, plating a run despite not earning a hit in the first. A double from
Riley McKeever would give MSUM its first hit of the game in the top of the third. However, McKeever would remain stranded at second base as the inning ended.
The Dragons would threaten in the fourth as
Teagan Pranchke led off the frame with a walk. After a single from
Courtney Locke, Moorhead would have two runners on base. A passed ball would move both runners into scoring position, but MSUM would be unable to capitalize. Missouri Southern would score two runs on two hits in the home half to take a 3-0 lead.
McKeever would jolt the Dragons again in the fifth frame, tripling with two outs. Macchiaroli would single in the ensuing at-bat to drive McKeever home, making the count 3-1. The Lions would instantly respond, plating four more runs on four hits in the bottom half to lead 7-1. After the Dragons were held hitless in the top of the sixth, Missouri Southern would take full command of the game. The Lions ended the game in the bottom half on a two-run homer to win, 9-1.
Up Next
MSUM (1-14) takes the short trip to Pittsburg, Kan., for a doubleheader with #22 Pitt State tomorrow. First pitch is scheduled for 11 a.m.
