ROCHESTER, Mich. - The Golden Grizzlies claimed a commanding 8–2 victory over Rochester Christian at the OU Softball Field on Tuesday. With an impressive 11 hits, including a season-high five doubles, Oakland's bats came alive, especially during a decisive five-run sixth inning.
The Golden Grizzlies jumped out in front early.
Addison Caldwell got things rolling with a double to right, followed by
Addison Kopp's single to push Caldwell to third. Kopp swiped second, setting up
Autumn Liebhauser's clutch single to left, bringing both runners home.
Alyssa Balcom kept the momentum going with a double that scored Liebhauser, giving Oakland a solid 3–0 lead after the first.
Rochester Christian made a push in the fifth. Makayla Lezo's single and Brooklyn Ros's walk, followed by a sacrifice bunt, put them in scoring position. Ella Hayes stepped up with a single to center, cutting the lead to 3–2. But Oakland held firm.
In the sixth, the Golden Grizzlies turned up the heat. Balcom reached on an error and scored on
Kama Skrek's double.
Alexa Kownacki added a single, stole a base, and crossed home plate, while
Kayla Rodriguez walked and scored too. Caldwell's single brought in two more runs, marking a personal season-high of 2 RBIs. Liebhauser's sacrifice fly scored
Annabel Power, cementing an 8–2 lead for Oakland.
The Golden Grizzlies' pitching staff kept Rochester Christian at bay.
Maraina Smith was spotless in her inning, striking out one without allowing a hit or run.
Mary Newton also shone, pitching a clean inning with just one walk.
Alyssa Balcom's season-high 5 innings of work kept RCU in check, ensuring the win for Oakland.
Caldwell finished with two hits and 2 RBIs, including her double. Liebhauser matched her with two hits and 2 RBIs, also doubling. Balcom recorded two hits, a run, and an RBI, adding a stolen base. Kownacki chipped in with a hit, two stolen bases, and led with a season-high five assists.
Bella Crager celebrated her first hit of the season, a milestone worth noting.
Up next, the Golden Grizzlies host Michigan State University on Wednesday, April 8, with first pitch set for 3 p.m. ET.
