BYU softball lost to No. 23/21 Oklahoma State, 6-0, at Cowgirl Stadium on March 19.
The loss marks another setback for the Cougars, who are now 8-19 overall and remain winless in Big 12 play at 0-4. The team struggled offensively, recording just one hit and being retired in order during five of the seven innings.
Lily Owens led BYU with a single hit in three at-bats. In the first inning, Oklahoma State loaded the bases with no outs, but BYU managed to escape without allowing a run after turning a double play and forcing an infield pop out. However, the Cowgirls scored two runs in the second inning through a combination of walks, a sacrifice bunt, a double to right field, a Cougar fielding error, and a double steal attempt.
BYU had an opportunity to respond in the third inning by loading the bases with two outs after walks from Kaiya Fabela and Danica Acosta and an infield single by Owens. However, they were unable to capitalize as a fielder’s choice ended the threat. Oklahoma State extended its lead with a solo home run in the third inning and added two more home runs in the fourth to make it 6-0.
The Cougars threatened again in the sixth inning by putting two runners in scoring position with two outs but failed to score after striking out. BYU was then retired in order during the seventh inning.
Looking ahead, BYU will face Oklahoma State again for game two of their series on Friday, March 20 at 6 p.m. Central Time on ESPN+.
