GEORGETOWN, TEXAS - The Southwestern University softball team split a Saturday doubleheader against Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, taking game one 6–3 before dropping the nightcap 3–1. The Pirates showcased timely hitting and strong pitching in the opener, led by Tauryn Alexander's four-RBI performance, while Hardin-Simmons struck early in game two to even the series. Southwestern's split keeps the team competitive as they prepare for their next matchup later this week.

GAME 1 – Southwestern 6, Hardin-Simmons 3

Southwestern got off to a fast start in the first inning when Tauryn Alexander doubled to left-center, driving in Calle Collier for a 1–0 lead. The Pirates stretched their advantage in the third inning as Alexander singled to bring in Collier, followed by a two-RBI single from Macey Gilman that scored Alexander and Daniella Clark, pushing the lead to 4–0.

Hardin-Simmons answered in the fifth inning with an RBI single from Ella Salinas and a two-run homer by Emily Jacobs, narrowing the margin to 4–3. Southwestern regained control in the seventh as Alexander launched a two-run home run to left-center, driving in pinch-runner Jaydan Ewart and securing the 6–3 victory.

Sophia Ytuarte earned the win in the circle, tossing seven innings and allowing three runs on eight hits while striking out three.

Game 1 Highlights

• Tauryn Alexander finished 3-for-3 with a single, double, home run, and four RBIs

• Macey Gilman drove in two runs

• Calle Collier went 2-for-2 with a run scored

• Sophia Ytuarte pitched a complete game, allowing three runs with three strikeouts

Game 1 Notes

• The Pirates tallied 10 hits in the win

• Alexander's two-run homer capped a four-RBI performance

• Jaydan Ewart scored a run as a pinch runner

GAME 2 – Hardin-Simmons 3, Southwestern 1

Hardin-Simmons jumped out to an early lead in the first inning, scoring three runs on RBIs from Bailey Miller and Erin Love, including one run on a fielder's choice.

Southwestern answered in the fifth inning when Izabella Hernandez singled to left field, bringing in Calle Collier for the team's lone run. The Pirates were unable to generate additional offense, and the Cowgirls held on for the 3–1 win to split the doubleheader.

Game 2 Highlights

• Izabella Hernandez recorded the Pirates' lone RBI

• Calle Collier added a hit and scored a run

• Macey Gilman went 2-for-3 at the plate

• Aryana Dunkelberger added another hit to her stat line

Game 2 Notes

• Southwestern finished the game with six hits

• Mazlyn Heyer pitched six innings, allowing three runs with one strikeout

UP NEXT 

• Southwestern returns home to host St. Olaf in a doubleheader at Taylor-Sanders Field on Tuesday, March 17, with first pitch set for 3:00 p.m.