The University of California, Los Angeles softball team defeated Michigan State 18-10 on March 14 at Easton Stadium, securing the Big Ten series and extending its winning streak to 18 games.
This victory marks UCLA’s 16th run-rule win of the season and keeps the Bruins undefeated in conference play. The team recorded nine hits, eight walks, and capitalized on five errors by Michigan State. Four home runs contributed to UCLA’s offensive surge, continuing a streak of 19 consecutive games with at least one home run.
Senior Jordan Woolery led the offense by reaching base in all four plate appearances, going 3-for-3 with a double, a home run, four RBIs, three runs scored, and a walk. Her performance increased her NCAA-leading RBI total to 58. Sophomore Rylee Slimp added a career-high four RBIs with a bases-clearing double and a hit-by-pitch with the bases loaded.
Infielders Bri Alejandre and Aleena Garcia along with catcher Sofia Mujica each homered during a five-run third inning. Alejandre started the rally with a three-run homer, followed by back-to-back home runs from Garcia and Mujica. The Bruins have now hit back-to-back home runs in three straight games and six times this season.
Senior Megan Grant contributed with a single and two walks—both in the first inning—including her second walk that drove in her 47th RBI of the year. Grant has reached base in all 27 games this season, which is currently the third-longest streak nationally. She also leads the country in walks (37) and on-base percentage (.720).
Freshman Natalie Cable started for UCLA but allowed six runs—two earned—in two innings pitched. Sophomore Brynne Nally finished out the game over three innings to earn her second win of the season.
UCLA will conclude its first-ever Big Ten series against Michigan State tomorrow at Easton Stadium at noon Pacific Time. The game will be streamed live on BigTenPlus.com.
