INDIANAPOLIS – The Butler softball team dropped game two of its BIG EAST series with Providence by the score of 4-2. The Bulldogs (23-19, 14-9 BIG EAST) scored one run early, but the Friars (29-17, 18-5 BIG EAST) responded with two in the second inning and two more in the sixth to take a three-run lead into the final frame. Butler got one back in the seventh but could not extend the game.
Prior to the game, the Bulldogs recognized seven seniors who are playing their final season at Butler: Morgan Robertson,
Emily Todor,
Hailey Conger,
Kieli Ryan,
Rylyn Dyer,
Cate Lehner, and
Olivia Robards.
Butler's first-inning run came when Conger, who finished 3-for-4 with both of Butler's RBIs, hit a run-scoring single to center field.
Providence used a two-run home run in the second, and then three doubles in the sixth, to score its four runs.
In the final inning,
Erin Clark reached on a single, and
Paxton Law then took over for base running duties. After Law advanced to second, a Conger double allowed her to score. The Providence lead was narrowed to 4-2.
Makena Alexander then drew a walk, but the Friars secured the final out on a force at second.
Rylyn Dyer (4-4) started in the circle for Butler, pitched through six innings, and took the loss. She allowed four runs on five hits and two walks.
Kate Murray provided relief in the final inning, allowing only one hit with one strikeout.
Bulldog Bits
- Hailey Conger's double was her 11th this season and the 24th of her career.
Up Next
Butler and Providence will play the rubber match of the series on Sunday. First pitch has been pushed back to 1 p.m.
