Box Score CHICAGO – The Butler softball team came from five runs down to produce a tie with DePaul, but the Bulldogs ultimately saw a four-game winning streak come to end, losing 6-5 to the Blue Demons in eight innings. Butler (21-18, 12-9 BIG EAST) and DePaul (19-26, 7-13 BIG EAST) will face each other in the rubber match of the conference series on Sunday.
After three scoreless innings, DePaul loaded the bases with no outs in the fourth. The first out came on a force at home, but a subsequent single scored a pair, and a double then added a third. After a pitching change, an error allowed two more to cross. When the dust finally settled, the Blue Demons had built a five-run lead.
One inning later, Butler tied the game with five of its own. With two runners on,
Cate Lehner laid down a bunt, and an errant throw allowed both runners to reach home. After
Hailey Conger drew a walk,
Makena Alexander hit a double to right center that plated two more. Finally,
Olivia Robards hit a single up the middle that sent pinch runner
Rachel Hunt all the way home from second.
In the bottom of the eighth inning, DePaul advanced runners to second and third, and an intentional walk loaded the bases. After a strikeout, an infield single ended the game.
Rylyn Dyer (3.1-IP, 5R, 3ER, 5H, 2K) started in the circle for Butler and lasted into the fourth.
Alyx Johnson (4-1) provided relief, finished the game, and took the loss. In 4.0 innings, she allowed just one run on four hits and two walks with three strikeouts.
Bulldog Bits
- Alexander's double was her ninth this season and the 21st of her career.
Up Next
Butler and DePaul will play the third and final game of the series tomorrow, Sunday, April 26, at 1 p.m. ET (noon CT) in Chicago.
