Junior Audra Rast threw the first no-hitter of her career Friday afternoon, defeating Michigan State, 8-0, in five innings of play and Corey Harris hurled a three-hitter helping the Redbirds to defeat no. 8 Arizona State, 3-0, for the first time in Redbird softball history after a 0-13 losing streak against the Sundevils.
In the first game against the Spartans, Rast (2-1-0) threw eight strikeouts for the win, while senior left fielder Cutie Taylor did some damage at the plate stroking two homeruns deep over the left field fence.
Offensively, the Redbirds (2-4, 0-0) combined for 11 hits and 6 RBI, three of which were Taylors, helping them to grab a .478 batting average, the best yet for the Birds this season in a single game.
Our hitting and pitching really made the difference, said head coach
Melinda Fischer. It feels awesome and I cant explain how I feel about the two wins. We got 12 complete innings from everyone on the team today.
The Redbirds also gave a strong defensive performance providing errorless play in the field. Freshmen Kate Stake and Dominique Borba, her first appearance this season, were flawless at second base and shortstop, while senior Shea Wesley gave a strong effort from behind the plate for Rast.
In game two, Corey Harris double to deep center field in the top of the third scoring Dominique Borba and Cutie Taylor, sparked the Redbirds to an early 2-0 lead over the Sundevils.
Corey Harris found a career best as a Redbird pitcher, firing a three-hitter against the Devils for the win.
In the last inning, I was so nervous. All of my pitches were coming from pure adrenaline, said Harris, who took the win for the Birds. The defense I had behind me was unbelievable!
The Redbirds play again on Saturday at 9 a.m. (cst) against no. 6 Iowa and 1:30 p.m. (cst) against Oklahoma State.
