KINGSPORT, TN - In a commanding performance, the Bryan College Lions softball team secured a 2-0 series sweep over Milligan University. The first game was a display both on offense and defense, led by standout performances from
Breanna Bumgardner and
Juliana Santillanes, which powered Bryan to a 6-0 victory.
Game 1 Highlights:
Breanna Bumgardner had a stellar game, batting 1.000 with a home run, a double, and four RBIs. Her two-run homer in the first inning set the tone early, and she continued to be a crucial player throughout the game.Juliana Santillanes also shined, scoring three times and hitting a triple that drove in two runs, adding to the Lions' offensive onslaught.
Payton Reasons dominated on the mound, pitching a complete game shutout. She allowed just two hits, struck out four batters, and efficiently managed the game with only 89 pitches.
The Lions started aggressively, with Santillanes singling and scoring off Bumgardner's homer in the first inning. The momentum continued in the second inning when Santillanes tripled to bring in two more runs, followed by another RBI from Bumgardner. This early lead provided the Lions with comfort but they didn't ease up, adding another run in the sixth inning thanks to another RBI double from Bumgardner.
Milligan struggled to respond throughout the game, managing only two hits against Reasons. The Milligan pitchers, starting with S. Shoun, who took the loss after giving up four runs in just one inning, were unable to contain Bryan's hitters. , who came in relief, fared slightly better but still surrendered two runs over six innings.
Game 2:
Breanna Bumgardner continued her outstanding day, hitting three home runs in the game, contributing to three of Bryan's seven runs. Bumgardner's consistent power at the plate was a major factor in both games of the series.
Cali Green also played a crucial role in this victory, contributing with three hits and two RBIs, including a key single in the first inning that helped extend Bryan's early lead.
Denver Hogrefe excelled on the mound, pitching a complete game with only one run allowed off three hits, striking out four, and maintaining excellent control throughout her outing.
The game started fast for Bryan with Bumgardner's solo home run in the first inning followed by Green's RBI single. This set the tone early, giving Bryan a 2-0 lead. Bumgardner's bat stayed hot, adding solo home runs in the fourth and sixth innings, extending the lead to 5-0.
Milligan managed to score their only run of the game in the sixth inning, with M. Johnson driving in K. Blevins. However, Bryan responded in the top of the seventh with two more runs. H. Stahl and D. Hogrefe each recorded RBIs, pushing the score to 7-1.
Milligan's pitcher, K. Secrist, struggled against the aggressive Bryan lineup, surrendering 14 hits and six earned runs over seven innings. This contrasted sharply with Hogrefe's performance, which was both efficient and effective, allowing Bryan to control the game from start to finish.
Overall, Bryan's offense was too much for Milligan, with 14 hits contributing to their seven runs. This offensive explosion supported an equally strong defensive performance, highlighted by Hogrefe's pitching and a solid fielding effort that kept errors to a minimum.
Next Time Out:
The Lady Lions are back on the road Monday 4/15 for a doubleheader vs Montreat College beginning at 5:00 PM.
