TEMPE – Despite a late comeback push, Arizona State (13-3) couldn’t dig itself out of a hole against New Mexico State (6-11), falling 6-5 in its finale at the Sun Devil Classic on Sunday.
The Sun Devils’ bats fell flat, as runs were hard to come by after the first inning.
“We have very capable hitters from one to nine,” ASU coach Megan Bartlett said. “I just need them to pick good pitches (and) execute the plan.”
A dominant performance in the circle from the Aggies junior left-handed pitcher Faith Aragon helped keep the Maroon and Gold offense at bay, as she only allowed five hits and two earned runs through seven innings pitched, striking out seven.
“She’s a tough left-handed arm, and we knew we were heading into this matchup and just didn’t adjust quick enough,” Bartlett said.
The Sun Devils struggled early in the circle, surrendering five runs in the first two innings. Walks and free passes stood as the main culprits for ASU’s difficulties, as New Mexico State managed to take advantage of the host’s missteps.
“We’ve got to limit the free bases on the mound,” Bartlett said.
ASU lowered the deficit in the bottom of the sixth inning, scoring one run on freshman utility player Jazmarie Roberts’ groundball that scored senior outfielder Yannixa Acuña from third to bring the score to 6-4.
In the bottom of the seventh with runners on second and third, junior catcher Emily Schepp’s sacrifice fly scored sophomore infielder Tiare Ho-ching from third. It opened the door for the Sun Devils late, who loaded the bases with a chance to possibly walk off New Mexico State. Nonetheless, the Aggies closed the door, striking out the next two batters and forcing a groundout to secure a 6-5 win.
After dropping their third game of the season, the Sun Devils prepare to welcome the University of California, Riverside on Thursday at 6 p.m. MST at home for the ASU Invitational.
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