In a thrilling start to their doubleheader, the Auburn Tigers showcased their offensive prowess with a commanding 10-5 victory over No. 14 Oregon at the Big League Dreams Complex.
Auburn's aggressive approach was evident from the get-go, as they exploded for six runs in the first two innings. AnnaLea Adams was the star of the early innings, launching two three-run homers in consecutive frames to give the Tigers a solid 6-4 advantage after the second inning.
The Tigers' offense didn't let up, with a crucial seventh inning that saw McKaela Walker deliver a bases-loaded double to right field, driving in three pivotal runs. Walker and Adams were unstoppable at the plate, each racking up three hits.
Ava Ratliff also contributed with a solo shot in the third, as Auburn's bats dominated with 15 hits compared to Oregon's eight. The top of the lineup was particularly effective, with Kylie Shaw, Ma'Nia Womack, and Destiny Rodriguez each crossing the plate twice, while Adams scored three times.
Auburn's pitching staff played a key role in the win. SJ Geurin started strong, striking out two and allowing just two earned runs without issuing a walk. Ella Harrison was solid in relief, surrendering only one hit and striking out two more.
However, the Tigers faced a stark contrast in their second game against No. 9 UCLA.
Auburn's pitching faltered, allowing a season-high 23 runs, with the Bruins breaking the game wide open in the third inning by scoring 18 runs. Ramsey Suarez and Jordan Woolery were instrumental for UCLA, each hitting a double and a home run in the inning, combining for an impressive 11 RBIs.
Auburn's pitchers struggled throughout, with four hurlers taking the mound and Harrison suffering her first loss of the season. The staff managed just two strikeouts while conceding 16 hits. Defensive miscues added to Auburn's woes, with two errors that further fueled UCLA's momentum.
Offensively, the Tigers found little success against the Bruins, managing only a pair of singles from Rodriguez and Alyssa Hastings and a triple from Walker. Delaney Auma's late home run in the final inning was a small consolation as Auburn avoided the shutout. The game concluded after five innings due to the run-rule.
Looking ahead, Auburn aims to rebound as they continue their journey in the Mary Nutter Classic, facing BYU at 10 p.m. CST on Friday. Fans can catch the action live on FloSoftball, as the Tigers seek to regain their winning form.