In San Diego, the Miami University softball team had a mixed day on the field, splitting a doubleheader on Friday. They faced off against the University of Kentucky and the University of Minnesota. Despite a strong effort, the RedHawks lost a close match to Kentucky, 8-7. However, they bounced back with a solid win against Minnesota, finishing 5-3.
Game 1: Miami vs. Kentucky
Kentucky got off to a quick start, scoring three runs in the first inning and four more in the second, taking a commanding lead of 7-0. Miami began their comeback in the third when Mia Estrello doubled and plated Bailey Manos.
As the game progressed, Miami kept pushing. By the fifth inning, Danitza Hernandez helped bring in two more runs, narrowing the gap to 7-3. In the sixth, the RedHawks added two more runs thanks to a hit-by-pitch that allowed Katy Olive to score, followed by a fielder’s choice play that got Manos to home plate.
In a thrilling seventh inning, Hernandez hit a home run, bringing Mckenna Campbell home and making the score 8-7. Unfortunately, the Wildcats managed to hold onto their lead and clinched the victory.
Key Highlights:
- Hernandez recorded four RBIs and was 2-for-4 at the plate.
- Manos was notable for scoring two runs and went 2-for-3.
- Miami out-hit Kentucky, recording 12 hits compared to Kentucky’s 8.
Game 2: Miami vs. Minnesota
The second game started with Minnesota scoring first due to a fielding error. The RedHawks responded quickly in the top of the second when Ella Carter and Erin Pinter scored off a double from Olive, taking a 2-1 lead.
Minnesota tied it in the fourth with a home run, but Miami regained control in the sixth. Carter hit a home run, scoring Lindsay Miller. Later in the inning, Leila Mathis’s single allowed Pinter to cross home, increasing their lead to 5-2 going into the bottom of the sixth. The Gophers managed another run, but Miami held firm to seal their victory.
Key Highlights:
- Carter led with two of Miami’s five RBIs and went 2-for-2 with a home run.
- Olive had a strong impact with two RBIs from her double.
- Pitcher Angelina Ricciardi threw a complete game, allowing just four hits.
After the Games
The RedHawks showed resilience despite the tough loss to Kentucky. Their ability to rally against Minnesota demonstrates their fighting spirit. With performances like these, they remain competitive as they prepare for their next doubleheader against Minnesota and San Diego State.
In recent years, college softball has seen a surge in popularity, particularly on social media, where highlights and player performances get shared widely. Statistics show that viewership for women’s sports as a whole has increased, reflecting a greater interest in women’s athletics. As ESPN noted, viewership for women’s college softball has grown by a staggering 220% over the last five years.
In this context, teams like the RedHawks are not just playing for wins; they’re also part of a larger movement that is reshaping women’s sports.
