The University of New Mexico Lobos softball team lost to the Fresno State Bulldogs 12-6 in the opening game of their series on April 17. The pivotal fourth inning saw Fresno State pull ahead decisively, despite a strong response from the Lobos in the bottom half of that frame.
The outcome matters as it sets the tone for the rest of the series and impacts both teams’ standings. The Lobos showed resilience by tying the game early and rallying with five runs in their half of the fourth, but ultimately could not overcome a seven-run surge by Fresno State.
Six Lobos recorded hits during the game, with Briana Williams and Hayden Luderer each contributing two runs batted in. Jessica DeLeon led off an early inning with a double, helping set up UNM’s first run. Relief pitchers Arianna Capek, McKenna Guest, and Marina Tinari all appeared after starter Caitlin Benningfield exited during Fresno State’s big fourth inning. Tinari was noted as particularly effective, allowing no hits and striking out one over her appearance.
Fresno State built momentum with timely hitting including home runs in both the fourth and fifth innings. Despite UNM cutting its deficit to two runs after four innings, they were unable to generate further offense over the final three frames.
Game two of this series is scheduled for Saturday at 2 p.m., offering UNM another chance to respond.
