Southern Utah lost the final game of its softball series against Tarleton State on April 11, with a score of 8-2. The Thunderbirds now have a season record of 16-23 and are 2-7 in Western Athletic Conference play.
The result affects Southern Utah’s standing in the conference as they seek to improve their performance in upcoming games. The team will aim to rebound during their next home series.
Sophomore Michaella Salvatierra and junior Arianna Ramirez led Southern Utah at the plate, each recording two hits. Ramirez also contributed two runs batted in, scoring both Salvatierra and freshman McKenzy Becerra. Sophomore Hanna Duncan was charged with the loss after pitching one and two-thirds innings and giving up three runs on four hits. Freshman Avery Nielson pitched three and one-third scoreless innings in relief, striking out five batters and holding Tarleton State hitless.
The Thunderbirds scored first in the opening inning with doubles from Becerra and Ramirez but were quickly overtaken as Tarleton State responded with multiple runs over the next few innings. Despite additional hits later in the game, Southern Utah was unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Looking ahead, Southern Utah will continue conference play at home against Abilene Christian starting Friday, April 17. The series includes a doubleheader followed by a third game on Saturday. Fans can follow live statistics or watch broadcasts through suutbirds.com or ESPN+.
