Softball run-rules Columbia twice in AAC doubleheader

MILLIGAN, Tenn. (March 29, 2023) – The Milligan University softball team posted a pair of run-rule victories over Columbia (S.C.) at Anglin Field on Wednesday. The Buffs won 9-0 and 9-1 in a pair of five-inning victories.

After the doubleheader, Milligan's record was 16-10 overall and 12-10 in Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) conference play. Columbia stands at 13-17, 4-12 AAC.

Game 1 – Milligan 9, Columbia 0 (5 innings)

After neither team scored in the first two innings, the Buffs opened up a 2-0 lead in the third Bailey Cantrell and Layney Loyd driving in runs.

The Buffs plated seven runs in the fourth inning. Kate Pendleton walked with the bases loaded and Cantrell and Loyd both had two-run doubles in the frame to push Milligan's lead to 9-0.

The Koalas did not score in the fifth as the Buffs clinched the quick 9-0 victory.

Erin Forgety tossed a three-hit, five-inning shutout to earn her 10th win of the season.

Cantrell and Loyd both had two hits and drove in three runs. Katie Cronin and Maggie Johnson each notched two hits.

Game 2 – Milligan 9, Columbia 1 (5 innings)

Game two saw Milligan scatter four runs over the first three innings. The Koalas got one back in the fourth, but Milligan ended the game early with a five-run fifth inning.

All five runs the Buffs scored in the fifth were unearned. Stephanie Steele had an RBI double and Cronin ended the game with a base hit to bring home Steele.

The Buffs had 12 hits leading to their nine runs. Grace Jones, Cantrell and Johnson each had two hits.

Pendleton picked up the win in the circle as she allowed one run in 3.1 innings with four strikeouts. Allee Griffith earned her first save of the year by holding the Koalas off the scoreboard in the final 1.2 innings.

The Buffs continue their homestand Saturday against Brenau.