ASU couldn’t pick up a win in Utah due to an early deficit and a lackluster offense.
Utah run-ruled ASU 10-2 in six innings.
The Sun Devils defense made cringe-worthy errors in the first inning that cost them two unearned runs.
With two outs, a bad throw to second base by junior shortstop Chelsea Gonzales scored a Utah runner on third. Moments later, miscommunication by freshman first baseman Ulufa Leilua and senior second baseman Nikki Gerard left a routine pop-fly unattended scoring another unearned run.
Kelsey Kessler (13-7, 2.72 ERA) started in the circle for the Sun Devils and pitched four innings. She would take the loss, but not due to poor pitching. It was mainly due to lack of defensive support behind her.
The Sun Devils trailed the Utes 2-0 at the end of the first.
Senior catcher Katee Aguirre sparked a small offensive rally with a single down the left field line, driving home freshman outfielder Avianna Davis and extending her hitting streak to 10 games.
Senior left fielder Abby Spiel capitalized on a throwing error from the Utah pitcher scoring Aguirre and tying the game 2-2.
The tie didn’t last long. Utah answered back in the second inning with a three-run home run off Kessler to centerfield putting them up 5-2.
Breanna Macha relieved Kessler in the fifth inning. She gave up seven hits and five runs, increasing her ERA to 4.43.
Pitchers struggled, the defense didn't play well, and Utah was given a gift in the fifth when the umpire missed a tag-out at home. Another run was scored, giving the Utes a substantial 6-2 lead.
Welp...this was just called safe. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
— Sun Devil Softball (@ASUSoftball) April 16, 2016
6-2 Utah after five. pic.twitter.com/t6tcWJKs6j
The Sun Devils wouldn't score again after the second inning.
Three singles loaded the bases for Utah in the sixth inning. They capitalized with a walk-off double.
Utah scored four runs in the sixth inning to run-rule ASU 10-2.
The Sun Devils will seek revenge tomorrow against Utah at 6 p.m.
Reach the reporter at kcvalen1@asu.edu or follow @kvalenzuela17 on Twitter.
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