ALMA, MICH. – The Trine University softball resumed the second game of their doubleheader against Alma College today and were defeated 11-9 in eight innings.
The game appeared to be destined to be a pitching duel with only one run being scored in the first three innings. Alma came away with that run in their first at bat when they took advantage of a throwing error for the 1-0 lead.
The Thunder changed the shape of the game when they exploded offensively in the bottom of the fourth inning. Senior Kaylee Fox (Vermilion, Ohio / Edison) started the scoring with a leadoff homer and Trine kept their foot on the gas going through the order in the inning. When the third out finally came the Thunder were in the lead 6-1.
Unfortunately, Thunder pitching began to give up runs of their own and the Scots pulled themselves back into the game. It took four runs in the top of the seventh, but Alma tied the game at seven and retired the side in the bottom half of the inning to force extra innings.
The opposition kept up their offensive barrage scoring four runs in the top of the eighth to take a commanding 11-7 lead.
Just three outs away from defeat, with darkness closing in around them, the Thunder came up to bat. The leadoff batter failed to reach for the Trine, but the next four succeeded, scoring two runs along the way to bring the score to 11-9. At that point the game was halted due to darkness.
Today when the game was restarted Alma recorded two quick outs and ended the game with the victory.
Freshman Mercede Daugherty (Watervilet, Mich. / Watervilet) led the way for the Thunder in the game recording three RBIs while going three for five at the plate.
With the loss the Thunder fall to 18-4 overall and 1-1 in the MIAA. Trine will continue conference play tomorrow, March 30, with a home doubleheader against Olivet College. The first game is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m.