STARKVILLE, Miss. – The University of Missouri softball team delivered a thrilling performance, **evening the series** against the formidable No. 15/16 Mississippi State Bulldogs with a **12-8 victory** at Nusz Park. This pivotal win allowed Missouri to improve its season record to **21-23**, while standing at **3-11** in SEC play.
Dominating the Diamond
In an explosive showcase, MU’s lineup registered a **season-high** 14 hits, featuring five doubles and three home runs, igniting their offense like never before. The five doubles matched the team’s best, a feat achieved earlier in the season against Kentucky. Among the offensive stars, **four Tigers** delivered multi-hit games, with standout performances from **Taylor Ebbs**, who truly shined on this exhilarating Saturday.
Player Spotlight: Taylor Ebbs
Taylor Ebbs, a senior from Keizer, Oregon, turned heads with a **career-best** performance, going 3-for-4 with a double and a home run. She drove in **three RBIs** and crossed the plate herself twice in what marked her **10th multi-hit game** of the season. This brilliant display included her fourth career game with three hits, further solidifying her impact as a key player this season.
The Turning Point
With the scoreboard knotted at **5-5**, Missouri unleashed an impressive **six-run fourth inning**, ultimately taking a commanding **11-5** lead. The offensive surge kicked off with an **RBI single** from **Claire Cahalan**, who opened the floodgates. That was quickly followed by a **grand slam** from **Madison Walker**, marking her second of the season and putting her team in a position to secure the win. Notably, Walker now holds the team lead with **15 home runs** this season, inching closer to the Mizzou record for a single season.
Contributing to the Cause
Adding to the onslaught, **Stefania Abruscato** made her mark with a season-best second double, helping stretch the lead to **12-5**. Both she and **Ebbs**, who clobbered her **eighth home run** of the season (the **33rd** of her collegiate career), exemplified the relentless spirit of the Tigers, who were determined to emerge victorious.
Defensive Resilience
Despite the Bulldogs rallying back with **three runs** in the final two innings, the Tigers’ defense held firm. Emerging from the game with the win was **Marissa McCann**, improving her record to **8-9** this season while earning her **first SEC victory**. McCann displayed solid pitching, allowing six earned runs over **5.2 innings**, complemented by four strikeouts.
Highlights and Key Performances
The accolades didn’t stop there. **Claire Cahalan** matched her career-best with two hits, contributing vital runs and an RBI to the total. Similarly, **Abby Hay** showcased her skill with two hits, including a double, and scored twice. With **nine Tigers** collectively contributing to the hit tally, the offensive depth of Missouri was evident throughout the match.
What’s Next for Missouri?
- The Tigers look to carry this momentum into their next game against Mississippi State on Sunday, April 13th, **with a first pitch** scheduled for **1 p.m. CT** on SEC Network+.
- Missouri will then return home for a midweek clash against SIUE on **Tuesday, April 15**, promising exciting programming for fans with the **Bark in the Park** event and Student Home Run Derby.
- Shortly thereafter, the Tigers will face No. **3 Texas A&M** in a highly anticipated weekend series from April 17-19.
Stay Connected
For all updates and the latest happenings surrounding Mizzou Softball, be sure to check out MUTigers.com and follow the team on social media: @MizzouSoftball on X, Instagram, and Facebook.
Additionally, the Diamond Club welcomes new members! Reach out to [email protected] or call 573-882-0704 to become part of the legacy.
Join us in Expanding the Tradition of excellence in Mizzou Softball, supporting the development of our rock solid foundation at the Mizzou Softball Stadium!
