The Samford softball team saw its six-game winning streak come to an end on March 31 as they lost 7-3 in a midweek matchup against UAB. The Bulldogs now hold a record of 15-22 overall and remain in second place in the Southern Conference with a 5-1 league mark.
This game is significant as it marks the conclusion of Samford’s recent momentum, which had carried them through several victories. The outcome also affects their standing as they continue conference play.
UAB took an early lead by scoring single runs in both the second and third innings before extending their advantage further. Starting pitcher Makinley Turner allowed three earned runs over just more than two innings, while UAB capitalized on early opportunities and defensive errors by Samford. By the end of the fourth inning, UAB led 6-0, with reliever Sara Bond allowing additional unearned runs.
Despite recording nine hits, Samford left ten runners stranded on base throughout the game. Olivia Shaw led offensively for the Bulldogs with two hits and one run batted in. Joi Hubbard contributed by doubling and scoring a run during a two-run fifth inning for Samford. In the seventh inning, Katie Campbell hit a two-run home run that narrowed the deficit to four runs; however, Samford left the bases loaded at game’s end without completing a comeback.
Bond finished her relief outing giving up only one earned run over nearly four innings but allowed three unearned runs due to defensive mistakes. Shaw and Nelson each had multiple hits for Samford, with Nelson reaching base all four times she came to bat. Turner took her sixth loss of the season after recently returning from injury.
Looking ahead, Samford will resume Southern Conference play this weekend when they travel to face Wofford for three games across Friday and Saturday.
