Softball gets big late-game hit, takes first game from Ball State


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The CMU softball team huddles during their game against the University of Buffalo on April 7 at Margo Jonker Stadium. 

In a game with plenty of runners left on base for both teams, the Central Michigan softball team found a way to break the trend in the late innings — winning 2-1 against Ball State.

CMU’s (19-18, 9-6 Mid-American Conference) redshirt junior Sara Hansen came up with an RBI single in the top of the sixth inning which was the eventual game-winning hit in the Chippewas 2-1 victory over Ball State.

The win snapped CMU's three-game losing skid and improved the Chippewas road record to 3-6 on the year.

Summary

Both starting pitchers worked their way in and out of jams through the first two innings and it led to a scoreless game heading into the third inning.

In the bottom of the third, BSU’s sophomore left fielder Hailey Dominque singled through the right side of the infield and drove home a run. It gave the Cardinals the 1-0 advantage.

After failing to score with the bases loaded in the fourth inning, CMU caught a break in the fifth. Senior catcher Maison Kalina tripled and then scored on a passed ball to tie the game at one run apiece.

With the score still tied in the sixth, senior third baseman Kayla Noch singled and it led to the eventual game-winning hit from Hansen. 

Senior pitcher Hanna Warren (7-6) came in for the final two innings of the game to earn the win and save. She allowed no hits or runs with one strikeout. Between Warren, senior Taylor Weaver and junior Laura Vaccaro the Chippewas allowed four hits, one strikeout and six walks.

Hansen’s RBI was the only RBI of the game. She also added a walk while going 1-for-2 at the plate. Kalina went 1-for-3 at the dish and scored CMU’s only other run. The Chippewas totaled six hits.

What’s next

The Chippewas will resume this three-game series with a doubleheader starting at 1 p.m. on April 21 in Muncie, IN. 

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