By: Tanner Thompson
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama Softball extends their win streak to eight with a win over the UAB Blazers, led by an RBI single from Ashley Prange and an RBI groundout from Bailey Dowling.
The Tide won 2-1 after another strong defensive showing.
Alabama’s elite pitching group strikes again
Alabama did have a defensive error in the first which allowed a runner to advance to third and eventually home. Despite the error, the Tide still outplayed UAB in a defensive battle.
Lefty pitcher Lauren Esman started the game, she allowed one run and struck out five batters in five innings. Esman has made three starts for the tide this season, including a shutout against Indiana on Feb. 18.
Montana Fouts came in for the 6th to close out, and yet again allowed no runs or hits. The All-American pitcher continues her dominance at the mound for the Crimson Tide.
A game won in three innings
The score did not change after the third inning. Ashley Prange hit an RBI single down the left field line to bring one run home and was able to advance to second after UAB avoided a potential error, and tied the game at 1-1.
Bailey Dowling was able to bring a runner home on a groundout to put the Tide up 2-1. There were a few hits through the rest of the game, but neither team could get on the board again.
UAB’s starting pitcher Olivia Malbak had an impressive game, totaling 8 strikeouts and no runs allowed after the third, But the Crimson Tide defense was able to keep UAB’s offense at bay until the end of the game.
What’s next?
The Tide will head west to take on the Texas Longhorns in the Bevo Classic on March 10th.
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