BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – New Mexico State softball opened its Western Athletic Conference series with CSU Bakersfield at the Roadrunner Softball Complex on Friday. The Aggies took down the 'Runners 9-0 in just six innings.
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After a pair of scoreless innings for both squads, NM State (29-20, 10-6 WAC) looked to rally when
Casie Roberto started the at-bat with a single and
Sarai Mejia followed by drawing a walk. A groundout advanced the runners into scoring position and CSUB (17-28, 3-13 WAC) intentionally walked
Kelsey Horton, loading the bases. With
Mya Felder at the plate, the freshman hit a single through the middle to put New Mexico State ahead 2-0. After a strikeout put two outs on the board,
Nikki Butler cleared the bases with a home run over the left field fence, moving the Crimson and White ahead 5-0.
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Following a scoreless fourth, Horton kept the momentum going when she began the fifth but reaching on an error by the 'Runners third baseman. Felder launched a homer out to left field, extending the 7-0 advantage.
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Keeping the offense alive in the sixth was Roberto, who hit a double to left center field. After Horton drew her second walk of the game, Felder hit a double, scoring the runners and giving NM State the 9-0 lead.
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Starting pitcher
Samaria Diaz came back to the circle for the bottom of the frame and surrendered her second hit of the game to the second batter she faced in the frame. However, a pair of fly outs ended the game, giving New Mexico State the 9-0 victory after just six innings.
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Diaz moved to 14-8 with the victory, pitching 6.0 innings and allowing just two hits and one walk while striking out six batters. Offensively, Felder led the team, going 4-for-4 with six RBI.
NM State closes out the regular season with a doubleheader against CSU Bakersfield on Saturday, May 4. First pitch is scheduled for 2 p.m. MT.
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