Softball Tops Graceland in Extra Innings

Softball opened Saturday's play at the Branson Grand Slam Classic on Saturday morning against Graceland. The Tigers went extra innings for the third time this season, winning for the second time as they defeated the Yellowjackets, 3-2.

Doane struck first with an RBI-double from Kayla Meyer in the fourth inning to drive in Lexi Adams. Graceland took the lead in the bottom of the fourth with a two-run home run. Meyer struck again in the seventh inning, leading off with a home run to tie the game.

The tie-break rule was in effect, placing a runner on second base to start the eighth inning. Grace Dowding moved Marisa Marquez to third base with a bunt single and the Tigers loaded the bases as Milannie Gonzalez reached base on a fielder's choice that held Marquez at third as Dowding moved to second. A passed ball with one out allowed Marquez to score the winning run as Doane was able to strand the Yellowjackets' potential tying run at third base.

Hannah Kline started for Doane and went 3.1 innings, allowing two runs on three hits and a walk while striking out two. Bri True picked up the win as she threw 4.2 scoreless innings in relief. She allowed one hit and two walks while striking out seven.

Doane had six hits in the game with Meyer going 2-for-3 with a run scored and two driven in. She had both of the team's extra base hits while Adams had the team's only stolen base.

The Tigers will take on No. 9 Our Lady of the Lake at 1 PM.