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Murfreesboro, Tenn. – The Kennesaw State Owls shined defensively in the series finale at Blue Raider Softball Field against Middle Tennessee. However, KSU was unable to overcome MTSU's four run rally.
The Owls navigated multiple high-pressure situations, escaping bases-loaded jams unscathed and turned two key double plays to stifle the Blue Raiders' offensive momentum.
How It Happened
The Owls came out strong defensively in the first inning, with Macie Howes turning a clutch double play to escape a bases-loaded jam.
Middle Tennessee struck first in the second, sending a solo homer over the fence to take a 1-0 lead.
Kennesaw State had a chance to respond in the fourth when Lexie Shaver smacked a one-out double down the left-field line, but the inning ended with a flyout and groundout.
The Owls kept the Blue Raiders in check in the bottom half, turning another quick double play, this time initiated by Jojo Johnson.
The game stayed tight until the fifth when Middle Tennessee broke it open with a four-run inning. A leadoff home run, followed by circle troubles and a key single, gave the Blue Raiders a 4-0 lead. A sacrifice fly capped the rally and gave MTSU a 5-0 commanding advantage.
In the sixth, Ava Guzowski singled up the middle, and Shaver followed with a double, putting two runners in scoring position with two outs. The Owls' rally fizzled out with a pop-up.
On the mound, Jenna Chase brought the heat in the bottom half, striking out two batters to escape another bases-loaded jam.
Kennesaw State finally got on the board in the seventh. Reese Evans led off with a single, and Miller doubled to right, forcing an error that allowed pinch runner Alex Russo to cross the plate. With Miller on third, the Owls couldn't capitalize further, as Middle Tennessee sealed the 5-1 win by getting the final two outs.
Quick Hits
- Madison Miller showed in the leadoff spot for the first time this season. Miller continued her game of firsts by knocking her first double of the season.
- Miller reached base safely at all three plate appearances.
- Jenna Chase struck out two batters in one inning, silencing the Blue Raiders with bases loaded.
- Lexie Shaver went 2-for-2 at bat, both being doubles.
- Ava Guzowski had two singles to tie her total from last season at 32 total hits.
- Guzowski extended her multi-assist game streak to nine games.
- Three Owls had a multi-hit game.
- The Owls out hit the Blue Raiders 8 to 7.
On Deck
Bailey Park is back in action after the Owls' two-week road trip, as they return home to host Western Kentucky. The CUSA series opener is set for Friday, April 4, at 6 p.m.
