Texas State softball continues winning streak after a midweek shutout against Wichita State

By: Solomon Nash  

KTSW Reporter

SAN MARCOS, Texas – A break in conference play did not faze the Bobcats, as they displayed a complete game against the visiting Wichita State Shockers securing a 5-0 shutout at Bobcat Softball Stadium.  

Key home runs from Keely Williams and Aiyana Coleman helped propel the Bobcats to a midweek victory.  

“It feels great I prefer consistent hitting rather than home run or bust but it felt good to finally see it happen.” said Texas A&M transfer Williams.  

The game started slow for both teams, combining for one hit in the first inning. The first runs of the game were scored in the bottom of the second inning after Ciara Trahan was able to get on base following a fielder’s choice, then would go on to score following Megan Kelnars RBI. 

Kelnar was able to advance to second base on the throw of her single, and would go on to score when Mayson Garret drove a double down the line. 

Starting pitcher Emma Strood would then do her part and retire the next three batters in order during the third inning. The Texas State defense recorded a nice double play to close out the fourth inning and keep the Shockers scoreless. 

In the bottom of the fifth Erin Peterson was able to land a single to the right, then Williams seized the opportunity and put the game away with a two-run homer to right field. 

Texas State was not done scoring, as Aiyana Coleman came up to the plate right after Williams and hit a bomb to right field. She got her own home run and secured the final insurance run for the Bobcats.  

Emma Strood’s night would be done after this. She ended the day allowing two hits and recording two strikeouts, her record would improve to 8-3 for the season. 

Madison Azua closed the game out for the Bobcats when she came in for Strood in the 6th and went on to allow only one hit.  

Wichita State starting pitcher Ava Sliger had her day end after five innings, recording zero strikeouts, giving up seven hits and five runs.  

“That was one of the best games we’ve played overall all year long. We pitched well, we hit well [and] we played good defense,” said Texas State head coach Ricci Woodard. “I just thought it was a good, clean game for us. We [have to] play like this if we wanna beat Coastal Carolina.”said Woodard.  

 Texas State is now 19-6 on the season and is 3-0 in conference, while Wichita State falls to a 13-14 overall record this season.

The Texas State Bobcats are set to take on the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers in a road series beginning on March 21st at 5 p.m. CT and is available to stream on ESPN+.