Oklahoma State Softball Shut Down by Minnesota

OSU managed only three hits in a 1-0 loss.

Thursday, May 26th 2011, 12:16 pm

By: News On 6

Oklahoma State Softball Shut Down by Minnesota

Originally Published: Mar 13, 2011 2:45 PM CDT

Oklahoma Sports Staff

STILLWATER, Okla. – The No. 20 Oklahoma State softball team recorded only three hits and suffered its second shutout of the season Sunday in a 1-0 loss to Minnesota.

The game’s only run came in the sixth, when Malisa Barnes led off the inning with a walk. She was replaced by pinch runner Kristen Coonrod, who advanced to second on a bunt and to third on a fly ball. Kari Dorle drove her home in the next at-bat to provide the eventual game winner.

The Cowgirls (20-6) had several opportunities to drive in runs of their own, but failed every time. They had runners in scoring position in the first and fourth innings and loaded the bases in the fifth, but Minnesota pitcher Sarah Moulton got out of every jam.

Freeman was credited with a loss, despite having an excellent outing. Dorle’s game-winning hit was one of only three Freeman allowed in 5.2 innings, and she struck out seven batters. But she could not out-duel Moulton, who pitched a complete game to earn the win.

The loss snapped a six-game winning streak for OSU, which had recorded shutouts in each of its last four games. It also marked the end of OSU’s host tournament, the Mizuno Classic, and was the Cowgirls’ first loss at home this season.

Oklahoma State will return to road tournament play in its next action against Kent State at 4:30 p.m. Friday in Clearwater, Fla.