Howard Payne battled at the plate across both games of Tuesday's home doubleheader against Austin College, but ultimately dropped both contests at Lady Jacket Park.
In game one, the Yellow Jackets showed plenty of offensive life, racking up 10 hits in a 7-4 loss. Alyana Salazar led the charge, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs, including a late two-run single that helped ignite a seventh-inning push. Kylee Watson added a strong performance at the plate, finishing 2-for-4, while Siannah Nava and Brianna Warriner each crossed the plate in the late rally.
McKeanne Saenz contributed with an RBI single, and Colbi Goodwin added a hit and scored as Howard Payne plated three runs in the final frame to close the gap. Despite the loss, the Yellow Jackets consistently put pressure on Austin College pitching, finishing with double-digit hits.
In the circle, Alyssa Silva got the start, while Ava Aviles provided relief work down the stretch.
Game two turned into more of a pitcher's duel, with Howard Payne collecting four hits in a 3-0 loss. Makayla Fuentes and Makayla Dunn each recorded hits, while Colbi Goodwin continued her steady day at the plate with another base knock.
Jacqueline Peralta provided a spark off the bench with a pinch-hit single, and the Yellow Jackets threatened in the later innings but were unable to break through.
Paris Mederez delivered a complete game effort in the circle, allowing just three runs while striking out seven, keeping Howard Payne within reach throughout.
Head Coach Bianca Gonzales said, "I thought we competed much better than the scores show, especially offensively in that first game. We had quality at-bats up and down the lineup and didn't quit late. That's something we can build on. In the second game, Paris Mederez gave us a strong outing and kept us in it. We just need to keep stacking those good moments together."
The Lady Jackets will be on the road on Wednesday, April 1 in Arlington against Arlington Baptist for their next series.Â
