Nevada Softball Dominates with a Series Sweep
Fresno, California – Nevada Softball is on a roll, claiming its fourth consecutive conference victory. The team completed a successful week in Mountain West play, showcasing outstanding performances from several players. Madison Clark shined, achieving a remarkable seven hits in eight at-bats over the series, while Saige Alfaro had an impressive game featuring multiple extra-base hits.
The match began as a tight contest. For the first three innings, both teams struggled, combining for only five hits. Fresno State managed to score first with a double in the second inning.
However, Nevada shifted gears in the fourth. Alfaro hit a solid double to center field, moving effectively around the bases thanks to a few fly outs. This effort put Nevada on the scoreboard.
Fresno State put pressure on Nevada in the fourth, getting two runners in scoring position. But Haley Painter made a clutch play, quickly throwing the ball to the plate where Aaliyah Jenkins executed a perfect tag, keeping the game tied.
In the sixth inning, Jenkins opened with her fourth triple of the season, followed closely by Alfaro who hit another triple. This marked the first time since April 1, 2022, that Nevada batters achieved back-to-back triples. Alfaro’s hit scored Jenkins, giving the Pack a crucial lead. Hannah Di Genova followed with a double, scoring Alfaro.
Hailey McLean, who came into the game in the sixth, maintained the lead by preventing any further hits. Although a few Bulldog players reached base, two fly outs in the seventh secured Nevada’s victory.
In terms of stats, Madison Clark’s seven hits over two days is an impressive feat. Alfaro contributed two hits, two runs, and an RBI, while Jenkins extended her on-base streak to 14 games with her triple. Hailey Engelbrecht continued to impress with two singles, marking her fifth game with a hit.
Starting pitcher Ainsley Berlingeri allowed only two hits and a run in her two innings. Tess Bumiller earned the win by pitching three innings, allowing just one hit and one walk. McLean closed the game, earning her second save of the week by pitching two scoreless innings.
Looking ahead, Nevada has four conference series left and will face off against San Jose State next week. The first game is on April 11 at 6 PM.
Key Highlights:
- This victory marks Nevada’s 30th win of the season, tying it for the eighth most in the school’s history.
- The team reached 30 wins in just 40 games, a record only surpassed by the 2024 season (37 games).
- Aaliyah Jenkins and Saige Alfaro’s back-to-back triples are part of a rare achievement, last seen in 2022.
- Jenkins’ four triples this season tie her for the eighth most in a single season for Nevada.
As the season progresses, the team’s momentum could play a vital role in their quest for a championship. Keep an eye on their progress as they head into the next series!
Check out this related article: Texas Longhorns’ No. 5 Baseball Triumphs Over No. 3 Georgia in Thrilling Walk-Off Victory for Series Sweep
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