13-05-2025
Raiders softball claim for opening round win
SIOUX CENTER, Iowa (NORTHWESTERN) – Jori Hajek's base hit in the fourth plated two runs to put Northwestern ahead, as the Raiders took down Baker (Kan.) 3-2 on Monday.
FINAL: NWC 3, BAKER 2Pitching DecisionsWin:Abby Flanagan (13-2)Loss: T. Eubank (5-6)Save: None
How It HappenedThe Wildcats opened the scoring in the first inning, scoring on an RBI single with two away to move ahead 1-0.
Northwestern responded in the fourth inning, capitalizing on Baker's defensive errors. After Maddie Kvatek and Charli Bomgaars reached base, Jori Hajek hit a single that, combined with an overthrow on the play at home, allowed two runs to score. Sydney Jacobs then reached first on an error in the subsequent play, bringing Hajek home and pushing the Red Raiders ahead 3–1 after the fourth inning.
Baker attempted a comeback in the seventh but ultimately could only cut the deficit in half. After a single and an error put a runner on third, the next Wildcat batter beat out a double play ball to bring her team within one. However, Northwestern's defense held firm for the final out, securing the 3-2 win.
GAME NOTES:
Jori Hajek went 3-for-3 with an RBI and a run.
Maddie Kvatek recorded a hit, a sacrifice bunt, and a run.
Tatum Schmalbeck, Gwen Mikkelsen, and Sydney Jacobs all recorded hits as well.
Mikkelsen extended her single-season record for hit-by-pitch (15).
Abby Flanagan earned her 13th win of the year, striking out two in 3.1 innings.
Northwestern moved to 4-0 all-time against Baker and 2-0 this season.
Up Next: The Raiders will match up with No. 13 Marian (Ind.) tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.
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