Lansing Sun

Michigan State secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Purdue in a softball game at Bittinger Stadium on Saturday. The win marked the Spartans' first Big Ten series victory of the season, and their first against Purdue since 2023.

The game remained scoreless until the seventh inning when junior Mik Anthony hit a home run over the right field fence, securing the win for Michigan State. This was Anthony's second home run of both the week and the season.

Michigan State's record improved to 20-30 overall and 6-16 in conference play, while Purdue fell to 25-25 overall and 11-11 in conference play. The Spartans have now won four consecutive games as they approach their final regular-season game.

Junior pitcher Madison Taylor delivered an impressive performance, allowing only two hits and one walk over six innings while striking out three batters. Taylor managed to retire 14 consecutive batters before a late rally by Purdue in the sixth inning.

Senior Liv Grey pitched in relief and earned her first save of the season, striking out two batters with just ten pitches in the seventh inning. It was Taylor and Grey's second combined shutout this season.

Anthony led Michigan State offensively with two hits from three at-bats, while senior Jenae Wash also contributed with a base hit.

Purdue had opportunities early on but failed to capitalize. They put a runner on third base with one out in the first inning but were thwarted by smart defensive plays from Michigan State. The Boilermakers' last significant chance came in the sixth inning when they placed two runners into scoring position before Wash ended their threat with an easy fly ball catch.

Looking ahead, Michigan State aims to sweep Purdue as they face off again on Sunday at Bittinger Stadium.