The Whitworth softball team scored five runs in the top of the ninth inning to defeat Pacific Lutheran, 7-2, on Friday. Whitworth increased its overall record to 12-3 and an undefeated 5-0 in the Northwest Conference. Freshman pitcher Madi Perez gave up eight hits, one walk and struck out four batters in a nine inning performance. Both PLU scores were unearned.

The Lutes put up a score in the bottom of the second inning when the Pirates committed two errors on the field. After senior first baseman Julia Johnson was walked, junior infielder Peyton McMahon hit a two-run homer over center field, putting the Bucs ahead, 2-1. Two more Pirate errors in the bottom of the third allowed the Lutes to tie the score at two apiece.

At the top of the ninth inning, Whitworth scored first when freshman third baseman Kelsey Stroshine was walked in with the bases loaded. Two more runs scored with sophomore catcher Megan John’s single to left center. A bunt by sophomore centerfielder Alyssa Hall allowed Stroshine to score. The Bucs finished the ninth inning with one more run across the plate.

The Pirates will face the Lutes again on Saturday for a doubleheader beginning at noon, and a single game on Sunday starting at noon as well.

Contact Tyler Jezierski at [email protected]