The UCLA softball team lost to Oregon, 8-2, in the series opener at Easton Stadium on May 1. The defeat ended the Bruins’ 20-game home winning streak and was their first home loss of the season.
This game was significant as both teams entered with strong records in Big Ten play. The Bruins now hold a record of 44-6 overall and 19-3 in conference play, while Oregon stands at 39-10 overall and matches UCLA’s conference record.
Oregon broke open a close contest with six runs in the seventh inning. Emma Cox drove in a run with an RBI single before Stefini Ma’ake hit her second three-run homer of the night. Rylee McCoy finished the rally with a two-run homer to left field. Earlier, Aleena Garcia gave UCLA an early lead with an RBI double and made a key defensive catch to keep Oregon off the board in the fourth inning.
Oregon tied the game at two runs apiece by hitting solo home runs off UCLA starter Taylor Tinsley in the fifth inning. Freshman Jolyna Lamar provided one of UCLA’s highlights by hitting a solo homer that evened up the score for a brief period.
Tinsley pitched all seven innings for UCLA but allowed eight earned runs on thirteen hits. Senior Jordan Woolery led Bruin hitters by going two-for-three at bat. For Oregon, Elise Sokolsky started and pitched six innings for the win before Lyndsey Grein closed out after entering in relief during the seventh inning.
UCLA will attempt to tie up its series against Oregon tomorrow afternoon at Easton Stadium, with fans able to watch on Big Ten Network or purchase remaining tickets online.
