Texas softball couldn’t replicate its late-game spark from the series opener, falling 6-1 to LSU in game two on Friday. The No. 3 Longhorns (40-6, 12-5 SEC) managed just four hits, as No. 9 LSU (36-9, 9-8) evened the series. The final game of the series is set for Saturday at 11 a.m.
LSU opened strong with a two-run first inning and never looked back. Texas pitcher Mac Morgan was pulled early, and reliever Citlaly Gutierrez gave up a two-run homer in the third, putting the Longhorns in a 4-1 hole. LSU later added two more insurance runs in the seventh off Maci Bergeron.
Texas had chances to close the gap, especially with two runners on in the fourth and bases loaded in the sixth. But clutch pitching from LSU’s Tatum Clopton and Sydney Berzon shut down any potential rally.
The Longhorns’ bats went cold after the second inning, going hitless for the final five frames. Katie Stewart provided Texas’ lone RBI, but a costly double play killed momentum in the second. Meanwhile, LSU capitalized on timely hitting and strong defense throughout.
Notably, Texas made lineup adjustments, benching shortstop Leighann Goode due to recent struggles at the plate. Katie Stewart slid into shortstop, with other outfield shifts to compensate.
With the series now tied, both teams will look to clinch the rubber match in what promises to be a crucial SEC showdown.
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