UTEP softball lost the first game of its three-game Battle of I-10 series against New Mexico State University on April 10, with a final score of 8-3 at the NM State Softball Complex.
The Miners now hold an overall record of 11-25 and are 3-13 in Conference USA play. The Aggies improved their season to 19-20 overall and stand at 9-7 in league games.
NM State took an early lead in the first inning with an RBI double. UTEP responded in the second inning, taking advantage of a throwing error by the Aggie catcher to bring home two runs and take a brief lead. However, NM State regained control in the bottom half of the second inning with a three-run home run, making it 4-2. The Aggies continued their offensive push with three more runs in the third inning and added another run in the fourth to extend their lead to six runs.
UTEP attempted a late rally when Hogan hit a solo home run in the seventh inning, but it was not enough as NM State secured an 8-3 win. UTEP managed four hits compared to nine from NM State. Carranza and Garcia each scored a run for UTEP, while Hogan drove in one RBI with her homer. Garcia also reached base twice during the game.
In pitching, UTEP’s starter was charged with her eleventh loss this season (now at 8-11). Relief pitchers combined for several innings; one provided a strong outing by allowing just one hit over nearly three innings without giving up any runs or walks before closing out with another scoreless frame.
The series continues Saturday, April 11, with first pitch scheduled for 6 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time. The game will be available for streaming on ESPN+.
