Lansing Sun

Michigan State's softball team faced a challenging day at the Candrea Classic, suffering defeats against Alabama and Western Michigan. The games took place at Hillenbrand Stadium in Tucson, Arizona.

In their first game of the day, Michigan State was defeated by No. 11-ranked Alabama with a score of 6-2. Despite matching Alabama in hits, with both teams recording seven each, Michigan State could not convert these into enough runs. Sophomore Hannah Greer had a standout performance for the Spartans, going 2-for-3 at bat and hitting her first career home run.

Freshman pitcher Jacey Schuler started for Michigan State against Alabama, allowing three earned runs over four innings. Senior Faith Guidry pitched the final two innings, conceding two more earned runs.

Alabama initially led with a solo home run in the first inning but was briefly tied by Michigan State when Junior Sydney Doloszycki drove in freshman Ava Coffinger in the third inning. However, Alabama extended their lead with additional runs in subsequent innings.

In their second match of the day against Western Michigan, Michigan State lost 8-0 after six innings. Senior Madison Taylor started as pitcher but was replaced after allowing three earned runs early on. Freshmen Carsyn Cassady and Ella Cunningham also pitched during this game.

Junior Britain Beshears and sophomore Kendall Smiley managed to secure hits for Michigan State during this matchup. Western Michigan capitalized on scoring opportunities throughout the game to secure their victory.

Michigan State aims to achieve its first win of the season on Saturday when they face Western Michigan again at 2:00 p.m. ET in their final game of the Candrea Classic.