Johnson City, TENN– The ETSU softball team showed up and showed out in a competitive doubleheader against Alabama A&M on Saturday, Feb. 28, walking away victorious from both matchups.
In the first matchup of the doubleheader at Betty Basler Field, Alabama A&M came out swinging and set themselves up with an early 3-2 lead by the end of the second inning. ETSU kept the pace, remaining only one run behind until they were able to rally later in the game. Freshman Riley Croley drove in a career-high three RBIs, including a two-run single in the sixth inning.
Croley finished the game 2 for 3 with a walk and a run scored, helping ETSU overcome their early deficit. Senior centerfielder Abigail Taylor was the one who sparked the comeback with three steals. She later scored, adding pressure on the Bulldogs’ defense. ETSU took this matchup 4-3, setting a winning theme for the day.
In the nightcap, the Buccaneers pitching and defense dominated, holding Alabama A&M to just three hits and pitching a 2-0 shutout. ETSU broke through in the third inning when Whitney Boone doubled and eventually scored on a passed ball. Payton Moore added an RBI single later in the frame. The pitchers, Barnes and Muncy, combined on the mound, striking out four and not issuing any walks to secure the shutout.
With the win, ETSU improved to 9-1 on the season, which is one of the best starts in program history. For the first time ever, they also completed a season sweep of Alabama A&M.
The Buccaneers will travel to Rock Hill, SC, on March 6, where they will play a double header against Georgia State and Winthrop later in the day. More information can be found at etsubucs.com under the softball tab.
