LA Tech picks up midweek win over SLU

RUSTON, La. – Despite stranding 11 runners on base, including leaving the bases load three times, Louisiana Tech turned to solid pitching and stellar defense in registering a 2-1 win Wednesday over Southeastern Louisiana at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field.

Tech (11-6) got a solid effort in the circle from Emma Hutchinson and Lauren Menzina while the defense turned three double plays, threw out a runner at home early in the game and caught a runner trying to steal second base.

It was enough for the Lady Techsters to hand Southeastern (10-4) only its fourth loss of the season.

“I’m really happy with the way we pitched and the way we defended,” said Josh Taylor. “All three of our pitchers are throwing well right now. Audrey (Pickett) was off tonight. She wasn’t an option. But I thought Emma and Lauren did really well. This is a good win.”

Hutchinson got the start and worked the first 4.1 innings, allowing just one run on seven hits and one walk. She was the recipient of some great defense behind her, including a great play by Tech freshman centerfielder Sierra Sacco in the second inning.

With a runner on second and two outs in a scoreless game, Southeastern laced a single to centerfield where Sacco charged it and threw a dart home to Brooke Diaz who tagged out the Lions runner attempting to score from second.

The Lions broke threw in the top of the fourth inning as back-to-back two-out doubles plated the first run of the game.

Tech tied the game in the bottom of the frame as Sacco recorded an infield RBI single with two outs to score Lindsay Edwards.

Southeastern threatened in the top of the fifth. Menzina came on in relief with runners on first and second and one out and got back-to-back ground ball outs to get out of the jam and preserve the one-run lead.

In the bottom of the fifth, Tech loaded the bases with one out and sophomore Olivia Ellingson drove home the go-ahead and eventual game-winning run with a sacrifice fly to left field.

Menzina (1-1) picked up the win, retiring all eight batters she faced, including three via strikeout.

Tech will travel to south Louisiana this weekend. The Lady Techsters will face Central Connecticut State Friday at 12 p.m. and UL-Lafayette at 5 p.m. in Lafayette. Tech will then travel to Baton Rouge where it will face Central Connecticut State (10:30 a.m.) and Troy (3 p.m.) Saturday and Troy (9 a.m.) and LSU (12 p.m.) on Sunday.