Syracuse Falls to Rutgers 7-2 in Final Game of Lowcountry Classic

By: Adam Gotkin | @adam_gotkin

Citrus TV Softball Beat Reporter

CHARLESTON, SC – On the final day of the Lowcountry Classic, Syracuse Softball went back to its old ways. Giving up an early lead, then waiting too long to respond. That’s what happened earlier this tournament and last weekend. Yesterday, Syracuse’s pitching was spectacular, giving up just three runs over two days. But today, the Orange gave up three runs in the first three innings. Rutgers was just too much for the ‘Cuse. 

It all started in the first inning, and the first batter. Kyleigh Sand, the leadoff hitter for the Scarlet Knights hit a single, stole second, advanced to third on an error then came home on a sac fly. Rutgers runs later in the game came from some firepower. Ryann Orange hit a two run homer in the third inning and Syracuse just couldn’t ever come back from it. Rutgers then added four more runs in the fifth inning. Both of Syracuse’s runs came in the bottom of the sixth. Angel Jasso and Taylor Posner both crossed home on unearned runs. 

On the pitching side, it was Lindsey Hendrix who got the start for Syracuse. While she didn’t get 17 straight outs like she did yesterday, she did her best to keep her team in the game. Kaia Oliver came in, in relief and that’s when the wheels fell off. Oliver, who has been great to start the year, gave up four runs on three hits and a walk without even registering an out. The final score was 7-2 Rutgers. 

Up next, the ‘Cuse open ACC play against one of the top teams in the nation, Clemson. The Tigers are one of the newest programs in all of college softball but that hasn’t stopped them from starting the season strong. The games are Syracuse’s first ever trip to McWhorter Stadium down in South Carolina. 

ajgotkin@syr.edu | @adam_gotkin