Lady Vols defeat Eastern Kentucky in Midstate Classic
No. 7 Tennessee (26-4) defeated Eastern Kentucky (19-7), 8-0, Tuesday in the Midstate Classic at Ripley Sports Complex in Columbia, Tennessee.
The Lady Vols led, 2-0, in the second inning after senior catcher Sophia Nugent hit a two-run home run. Nugent, who went 2-for-2, also hit a grand slam in the third inning against the Colonels. Destiny Rodriguez went 1-for-1. She recorded one RBI and scored one run for Tennessee, which collected six hits in the contest. Taylor Pannell also went 1-for-3 and scored one run.
Tennessee pitchers Karlyn Pickens and Erin Nuwer combined for a one-hit shutout. Pickens (10-3) pitched four innings. She allowed one hit and three walks, while recording seven strikeouts. Pickens totaled 66 pitches., including 43 strikes, while Nuwer pitched one inning and recorded two strikeouts. Nuwer totaled 29 pitches, including 20 strikes, for Tennessee.
The Lady Vols are now 14-0 all time against the Colonels. Tennessee will return to action Saturday, opening a three-game SEC series against Arkansas at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium. First pitch for game No. 1 is slated for 5:30 p.m. EDT and the game will be televised by SEC Network. The Lady Vols enter the series against the Razorbacks with a 10-0 home record.
The Lady Vols secured a dominant victory over Eastern Kentucky in the Midstate Classic, showcasing their strength and depth. Tennessee’s defense was particularly impressive, as they stifled Eastern Kentucky’s offensive efforts throughout the game. On the offensive side, the Lady Vols capitalized on their fast break opportunities, leading to easy points and maintaining control of the game from start to finish.
Key players for Tennessee stepped up, contributing to both scoring and playmaking. The team’s balanced offensive attack, with contributions from multiple players, made it difficult for Eastern Kentucky to gain any momentum. Tennessee’s depth was on full display, with bench players also making significant contributions to the win.
This victory in the Midstate Classic further strengthens Tennessee’s position as one of the top teams, as they continue to prepare for the upcoming challenges in the season. The Lady Vols’ solid performance highlighted their focus and determination as they look forward to their next game.