Virginia Tech faced a challenging defeat against Alabama, losing 4-3 in Game Three of the Tuscaloosa Regional at Rhoads Stadium on Saturday. This loss came despite a strong performance from the Hokies, highlighted by Kylie Aldridge’s second home run of the weekend.
The game started promisingly for Virginia Tech, who took an early lead in the first inning. After capitalizing on two leadoff walks, Bre Peck’s blooper single brought in the first run. Although Emily LeGette added two more runs with an RBI single to left field, a controversial safe call at the plate was overturned, limiting the Hokies to just two runs in the inning.
Alabama responded in the bottom of the second inning with a run coming from a wild pitch by Emma Mazzarone. The Crimson Tide turned up the heat in the third with a two-run home run, putting them ahead 3-2. They extended their lead in the fourth with another RBI single. Yet, the Hokies fought back when Aldridge hit her solo home run in the fifth, closing the gap to 4-3.
Despite a promising start to the seventh inning, with Jordan Lynch hitting a single, Virginia Tech was unable to convert the opportunity into runs, leading to their narrow defeat.
Key highlights from the game include:
– Virginia Tech’s all-time NCAA Regional game record now stands at 25-23.
– The Hokies have struggled against Alabama historically, with a record of 2-9 in past matchups.
– The team has performed well on the road this season, with a record of 14-7.
– Virginia Tech out-hit Alabama 7-3, showcasing their offensive potential despite the loss.
– Aldridge led the team with two hits, while LeGette also contributed significantly.
Looking ahead, Virginia Tech (42-12, 18-6 ACC) will be taking on the winner of the Belmont/Jackson State match later on Saturday at 5 p.m. ET, a game that will be broadcast on ESPN+. This upcoming game provides the Hokies with another opportunity to demonstrate their competitive spirit and bounce back from this close defeat.