Bama Softball Drops Season Opener to No. 12 Stanford
2/6/2004 12:00:00 AM | Softball
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PALO ALTO, CA—The No. 6 ranked University of Alabama softball team ran into a buzz saw in Stanford pitcher Dana Sorenson as the Tide (0-1) dropped a 4-1 decision to the No. 12 ranked Stanford Cardinal (1-0) in the opening round of the Stanford Spring Classic.
Sorenson retired the first ten Alabama batters she faced en route to six shutout innings.
The Cardinal got on the board first taking advantage of early Alabama miscues. Catalina Morris drew a one-out walk and stole second. Then with two outs Jessica Allister swung at a third strike in the dirt that got away from catcher Kellie Deska allowing Allister to reach first and Morris to score spotting Stanford to a 1-0 first inning lead.
The Cardinal added to its lead in the third on the strength of three consecutive hits including a triple by Morris as Stanford claimed a 3-0 lead. Following a stolen base and single from Meghan Sickler through the left side, Stanford led 4-0.
The Crimson Tide offense showed some life in the top of the fourth inning when Ashley Courtney delivered a one-out double down the right field line and took third on a ground out by Jackie McClain. VanBrakle drew a two-out walk putting runners on the corners but shortstop Dominique Accetturo struck out looking on a 3-2 pitch to end the Bama threat.
Alabama finally got on the board in the top of the seventh inning with McClain leading off with a walk. Deasy Phillips came on to pinch-run for McClain and took second on a VanBrakle ground out to the right side. Accetturo popped out and then Capper Reed singled up the middle scoring Phillips, however Reed was thrown out trying to take second ending the game.
VanBrakle took the loss allowing four runs on eight hits while striking out nine batters.
Alabama will be in action on Saturday when the Tide takes on the San Jose State Spartans immediately followed by another match-up with Stanford. First pitch against the Spartans is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. PT.
NOTES
--Alabama is 4-4 in season openers.
--Leah White's single in the sixth inning was her first hit since March 2, 2003.
--Stephanie VanBrakle's nine strikeouts was her most since striking out 10 against Miss. St. (4/12/03)
