University of Albany Softball Opens Season at Stetson Invitational - UAlbany Sports

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. – Junior Leah McIntosh struck out 10 opposing batters in a complete-game performance to lead UAlbany to a 2-0 win over Bethune-Cookman in the first game of the Stetson Invitational on Friday afternoon at Patricia Wilson Field. The Great Danes dropped a 5-0 decision to the host Hatters in the second game.

In the first game of the day, the Great Danes did all of their scoring in the first inning. Junior second baseman Michelle Connors was hit by a pitch in her first at bat of the season, and advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Andrianna Walraven. Senior Meagan Butsch drove a home run over the left field fence to send Connors home and complete all the scoring UAlbany would need in the game.

Sophomore right fielder Jessica Bergin recorded two hits and two stolen bases to lead the Great Danes offensively. McIntosh allowed just three hits and two walks in her seven innings of work. Ashton Hinds, Simone Ceasar and Taryn Hernandez all recorded hits for the Wildcats. Allison Garcia struck out two in her complete-game effort.

In the nightcap, right hander Erica Demers shut down the UAlbany hitters, fanning 11 while allowing just three hits. The Hatters scored their first run in the opening inning, as shortstop Chelsey Trotto scored on a wild pitch after singling to reach base. Stetson tacked on two runs in the second frame on a homer by outfielder Amy Joyce, which also drove in Heather Barnes, who was hit by a pitch during her at bat. Barnes also scored an unearned run in the bottom of the forth inning, while defensive hitter Katelyn Perna crossed home plate on a double by Rachel Lowe.

Walraven recorded two hits for the Great Danes, while left fielder Nicole Kothe also hit a single. Hurler Marissa Powell struck out five Stetson batters while walking three.

UAlbany (1-1) will return to action on Saturday, taking on Bethune-Cookman at 1:30 p.m. and Stetson at 4 p.m.