SAN DIEGO - San Diego State (22-23, 7-13 MW) dropped the opener of its three-game series against Boise State (21-29, 7-13 MW) on Friday, falling 5-4. While SDSU did battle back in the final moments of the game, it wasn’t enough to produce a win. With the loss, the Aztecs look to rebound in the remaining two games of the series as they approach the Mountain West Championship tournament in early May.
Boise immediately established an early lead in the first inning. Sophia Romero was hit by a pitch, Skylar Stroh walked, and Romero advanced to second base. Kate Penberthy sent both runners home with a home run to right field, increasing the score to 3-0.
The Aztecs seized momentum in the third inning, countering Boise’s previous offensive surge. Gabriella Terrones walked, and Sophomore Mia Rodriguez subbed in to pinch run for Terrones. Ally Dueker sacrificed a bunt to first base, which led Rodriguez to second base. Jade Ignacio then grounded out to second base and led Rodriguez to third. Angie Yellen held the pressure but struck out swinging.
In the top of the fourth, Boise continued to take action. Jorja Crider walked and then advanced to second when Hollie Farmer singled to center. In the midst of this, SDSU made a pitching change and subbed in Faith Jordan for freshman Matti Kwarta, who started the game pitching for SDSU. Talia Jenkins made a sacrifice bunt to the catcher, Crider advanced to third, and Farmer to second. Crider scored off of a Sophia Romero sacrifice fly and Boise increased its lead, 4-0.
Faith Jordan pitches for the Aztecs. Credit: San Diego State
The game ignited in the sixth inning. Boise scored yet another run when Farmer doubled to left center and sent the runner on second home, making the score 5-0.
SDSU did not quit. Junior Kaila Pollard homered to deep center field for a much-needed run for the Aztecs. Quinn Waiki followed and singled to left field. Waiki advanced to second when Olivia Gigante walked. Andrea Tall subbed in to pinch run for Gigante. Lala Macario singled up the middle to load the bases. Jayleen Hernandez served up a clutch double to deep right-center, which allowed all three runners to score and elevate the score to 5-4.
Despite a spirited late-game rally, the Aztecs were unable to bridge the gap, ultimately falling 5-4.
Next Up
The Aztecs will remain at home for their next games against Boise State in this conference series. Saturday’s game, April 25, will be at 4:00 pm. Sunday’s game, April 26, will be at 12:00 pm. Check out tickets here.
