The Ball State softball team used a balanced offensive attack to defeat Central Michigan by 8-2 in Game 1 of today's doubleheader.
Sophomore starter Nicole Steinbach pitched a complete game for the Cardinals, allowing two earned runs on five hits. The win gave Steinbach her 13th victory on the season.
Through two innings, it appeared as if a pitcher’s duel was on hand, but the Cardinals would score in every inning from the third on to win comfortably.
Ball State had 10 hits in the game, and the team also took advantage of the Chippewas' two errors and seven walks.
Senior first baseman Taylor Rager led the offense with two hits, including a two-run home run in the fourth inning. Briana Evans also collected a pair of base hits, while six other Cardinals had one. Designated player Sammi Cowger and catcher Shelbie Scamihorn each had an RBI.
The victory was the Cardinals’ sixth consecutive win, with all of them coming inside the Mid-American Conference.