BYU softball lost the third game of its series against No. 13/14 Arizona, falling 16-3 in five innings at Hillenbrand Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Cougars, now with a record of 5-17 overall and 0-3 in Big 12 play, started strong but were unable to hold off the Wildcats.
Ilove’a Brittingham gave BYU an early lead with a two-run home run after Hailey Shuler reached base on an Arizona throwing error. However, Arizona responded by scoring five runs in the bottom of the first inning, capitalizing on four hits and one Cougar error to take a 5-2 lead.
Arizona extended its advantage in the second inning by adding six more runs. The Wildcats used four hits, two wild pitches, and a passed ball to go ahead 11-2.
BYU managed to score again in the fourth inning when Rita Tavita hit a double that brought in a run. Singles from Hailey Morrow and Bre Townsend contributed to the effort.
The Wildcats continued their offensive performance in the bottom of the fourth, scoring five additional runs on four hits, two walks, and another Cougar error.
In the fifth inning, BYU put two runners on base but could not capitalize as a fielder’s choice, swinging strikeout, and line out ended the game due to the run-rule at 16-3.
Player highlights for BYU included Ilove’a Brittingham going 1-for-3 with a home run and two RBIs; Bre Townsend finishing 1-for-2 with an RBI; and Rita Tavita going 1-for-2 with a double.
The Cougars will return home for their next game against Abilene Christian on Tuesday, March 10 at 4 p.m. MT. The matchup will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
