BYU softball lost to No. 25 Arizona State, 9–4, in the first game of a three-game series at Gail Miller Field on April 30.
The result is significant as it marks another setback for the Cougars (18-31, 7-5 Big 12), who were outperformed by Arizona State both offensively and defensively. BYU managed only four hits compared to the Sun Devils’ thirteen and struck out nine times during the game.
Hailey Shuler provided an early highlight for BYU with a two-run home run in the bottom of the first inning, giving her team a brief lead at 2–1. Bre Townsend also contributed with an RBI double that tied the score at three runs each in the fourth inning. However, Arizona State regained control with a two-run double in the fifth and extended their lead further in the sixth through additional doubles and singles.
Both teams committed one error each during the contest. Despite BYU’s efforts to rally late—scoring once more when Ilove’a Brittingham came home on a ground out—the Cougars could not close the gap as neither side scored again before game’s end.
Looking ahead, BYU will face Arizona State again at Gail Miller Field for game two of their series on Friday, May 1. The first pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
