ELLENSBURG, Wash. – Eastern Oregon Softball bounced back in Game Two, defeating Central Washington 4-3 and securing a split in Saturday’s doubleheader after a 6-0 loss in Game One.
GAME 1
In the matchup of Saturday’s doubleheader against Central Washington, Eastern Oregon’s softball team struggled to generate offensive momentum, ultimately falling to the Wildcats with a final score of 6-0.
Central Washington took an early lead with a run in the third inning after a throwing error allowed Kate Hopkins to score, followed by a formidable offensive display in the fourth and fifth innings that saw the Wildcats reach a total of six runs. Laney Kaysner’s three RBIs, including a triple, were pivotal in the Wildcat’s offensive surge.
Haley Tyree and Kat Hylton each contributed a hit for the Mountaineers, but they were unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Pitching was a highlight for Central Washington, with Ashlee Laver throwing a complete game shutout while allowing only two hits and striking out seven batters. Kaylie Hoskins of Eastern Oregon recorded 12 strikeouts through six innings but ultimately gave up six runs in the loss.
GAME 2
The second game proved to be a tighter contest, with the Mounties securing a 4-3 victory in seven innings of play.
The game began with Central Washington securing one run in the first inning, but Eastern Oregon responded in the fourth inning with two runs to take the lead. Brylin Field stole second while a costly error from the Wildcats allowed Grace Spencer to steal home and tie the game. Shortly after, Maddy Stateler hit a sacrifice bunt that allowed Field to score the go-ahead run.
In the sixth inning, the Mountaineers widened their lead when Addison Ribordy reached on a fielder’s choice, advanced to second on the throw, and brought in Kat Hylton. With Hannah Tyree on third, Maddy Stateler added to the score with a sacrifice fly to center field that allowed Tyree to cross home plate. Central Washington fought back, scoring two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning but were unable to overcome the deficit.
Eastern Oregon finished the second game with seven total hits, led by Hannah Tyree and Madelyn Durham, each registering two hits. Brooke Jordan and Alyssa Benthagen each recorded two hits for the Wildcats.
Pitcher Kylie Parsons delivered a strong performance for the Mounties, going the distance and allowing only three runs on seven hits while striking out nine batters. On the opposing side, Payton Kessler took the loss for Central Washington, surrendering four runs on seven hits.
Eastern Oregon will return to Frederick Field for tomorrow’s doubleheader with Central Washington, set to start at 11 a.m.
