The last time the softball team (23—11 overall, 10—0 Empire 8) faced the Cornell University Big Red (20—21 overall, 11—5 Ivy League), they surrendered a walk-off grand slam in extra innings. This year, there was another game-winning grand slam, this time falling in favor of the Bombers.
Trailing Cornell 3-0 in the bottom of the fifth, the Blue and Gold finally broke through for their first hit of the game on sophomore second baseman Julianne Vincent’s bunt single. The Bombers eventually loaded the bases for freshman center fielder Monica Capolongo who crushed a 1-0 pitch over the center field wall.
The Bombers’ defense was able to contain the Big Red’s bats after three unanswered Cornell runs by going on to turn three double plays in the game.
Sophomore pitcher Sam Bender got the starting call for the Bombers, pitching four innings and allowing three runs — two of them earned. Sophomore pitcher Jillian Olmstead relieved Bender and surrendered only one hit through three innings pitched. She picked up her 13th win of the year in the process.
Due to inclement weather, the second game of the doubleheader was postponed, and it has not been decided whether this game will be made up.
The Blue and Gold’s next scheduled game is 1 p.m. Saturday against Empire 8 Conference rival Stevens Institute of Technology.