The Arizona Wildcats had a dominant performance in their opening game of the Tucson Regional, defeating Santa Clara 13-5 in a run-rule decision that lasted just five innings. The Wildcats showcased their offensive prowess by scoring 13 runs off 10 hits, with standout performances from several players. Notably, one player hit a grand slam and recorded four RBIs, while three others contributed two hits each to the team’s success.
The match began with Santa Clara taking an early lead with a solo home run. However, Arizona quickly responded with an RBI single to equalize the score at 1-1 in the bottom of the first inning. The Wildcats then surged ahead in the second inning, amassing four runs to establish a 5-1 lead. Key contributions included a two-run single from Shockey and a run scored on a wild pitch.
Despite a struggle in the top of the third, where Santa Clara managed to score four runs and close the gap, Arizona extended their lead once again with three more runs in the fourth inning. Altmeyer was instrumental in this stretch, driving in two runs with a double. The game concluded with an emphatic walk-off grand slam from Stewart, solidifying the Wildcats’ victory.
Stoddard, who earned her 13th win of the season, pitched four innings, giving up only one run on three hits. This performance indicates the Wildcats’ strong pitching depth as Stoddard re-entered the game to secure the win after another pitcher faced challenges.
In their upcoming matchup, the Wildcats will face the winner of the game between Ole Miss and Grand Canyon, scheduled for May 17. This sets the stage for an exciting continuation of the Tucson Regional, as Arizona aims to advance deeper into the tournament.
With a victory under their belt and a powerful lineup, the Wildcats are looking forward to the next challenge in their quest for success in the postseason.