NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Belmont University Softball team (26–9, 13–3) delivered a dominant start to its series against Drake University, sweeping Friday's doubleheader at E.S. Rose Park. The Bruins secured a 6–0 win in game one behind a no-hitter from Maya Johnson, then followed with an explosive 11–3 run-rule victory in game two.
Belmont combined elite pitching with a breakout offensive performance, highlighted by a nine-run third inning in game two where the Bruins batted through the entire lineup. The extended inning created multiple scoring opportunities and showcased the depth of Belmont's offense in one of its most complete performances of the season.
VS Drake – Game 1 (6–0)
Belmont first scored in the second inning, taking advantage of a bases-loaded opportunity. Tallulah Eichholz drew an RBI walk before Lydia Vanderwoude delivered a two-RBI double to put the Bruins up 3–0.
The Bruins added on in the third as Brenna Blume launched a two-run home run to center field, extending the lead to 5–0. Belmont capped scoring in the sixth on an RBI groundout from Rylee Spindler.
In the circle, Maya Johnson delivered another historic complete-game performance. The senior tossed her third no-hitter of the season and 10th shutout, striking out 15 while allowing just one walk. Johnson improved to 18–1 on the year and continues to lead the nation in multiple pitching categories, including shutouts.
The shutout marked Belmont's 11th of the season, accounting for nearly one-third of its games played.
VS Drake – Game 2 (11–3, 5 inn.)
After Drake plated three runs in the third inning, Belmont responded with a massive offensive outburst.
The Bruins answered with nine runs in the bottom of the third, sending every batter in the lineup to the plate. Rylee Spindler started the momentum with an RBI single scoring Lydia Vanderwoude. Nicole Hughes delivered the biggest swing of the inning, a three-run home run, to give Belmont the lead. The offense continued to roll as Tallulah Eichholz, Emily Konz, and Spindler, for the second time around, each drove in runs to extend the advantage to 9–3.
Belmont added insurance in the fifth inning as Lauren Luciani blasted a solo home run to center field, followed by an RBI single from Vanderwoude to secure the 11–3 run-rule victory.
The Bruins showcased a complete team effort at the plate, with six different players recording RBIs and every player in the lineup scoring a run.
Ellie Giles earned her second win of the season, tossing five innings with a season-high five strikeouts.
Up Next
Belmont will look to complete the series sweep against Drake in the finale on Saturday, April 2 at 1 p.m. CT at E.S. Rose Park. Live stats will be available on GoBelmontBruins.com with streaming on ESPN+.
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