WKU Softball continued its hot start, with a 2-2 record in the Mercer University Softball Invitational.
Once again, the Hilltopper pitching staff had a dominant outing. Senior right-hander Maddy Wood improved her season average ERA to 1.87, the lowest among WKU pitchers this season. Wood finished the invitational with 10 strikeouts.
Sophomore right-hander Erica Hogue built on her strong performance to start the season, striking out three in two appearances on the mound.
WKU’s hitters put together a solid outing, with seven recording at least five hits during the tournament.
The Hilltoppers sit at 6-3 on the season following the tournament. Last season, the Hilltoppers record sat at 4-4 at this point.
Day 1
WKU split Friday’s competition with a 2-1 weekend-opening win over Army and a 12-9 loss to the hosting Mercer.
The Hilltopper pitching staff led the way for the win. Wood started the day in the circle, recording five strikeouts and just two hits in her second win this season. Smith came in as relief and didn’t miss a beat, allowing zero hits and striking out two.
WKU’s hitters did not provide much run support against Army, combining for just two runs on five hits.
WKU and Mercer battled at the plate in game two, which ultimately ended in the Hilltoppers’ defeat. The teams combined for 23 hits and 21 runs.
Redshirt senior outfielder Jenna Blanton led WKU at the plate against Mercer, going 3-3 with two runs scored.
Day 2
WKU split the final day of the tournament, falling 6-8 to Iowa and defeating Mercer 13-2 in six innings.
Junior hitter Maci Masters had a phenomenal performance, hitting a grand slam in both games. Masters finished with eight hits on day two, and redshirt senior hitter Jenna Blanton complemented with five of her own. The Hilltopper hitting staff combined for 17 hits against Mercer.
The Hilltoppers pitching again showed up strong, led by Wood with her third win of the season. Wood only needed 73 pitches to tame the Bears.
WKU and Iowa battled at the plate, combining for four home runs and 18 hits.
Sunday’s game against Army was cancelled due to inclement weather.
WKU will return home to host the Hilltopper Classic against Butler, Western Michigan and Detroit Mercy. The first game against Butler is set for Friday at 3 p.m. CT.
