MIAMI – The FIU softball team erupted for six runs in the bottom of the first and never looked back as it posted a 6-4 win over Sam Houston on Saturday afternoon to even the weekend series.
 
The FIU offense came out hot in the bottom of the first as each of the first three hitters reached via a base hit before the runs started to cross.  Bailey Grossenbacher registered her 29th RBI of the season on a fielder's choice that plated Collier Peaden.  Kally Meredith was the next to score on an error by Sam Houston's Morgan Holliday.  Janelle Martinez then followed with the big blow – a double with the bases loaded that scored all three and extended the lead to 5-0.  Abigail Brown brought home Martinez for the final run of the rally on a sacrifice fly to deep right.
 
Sam Houston scored a lone run in the top of the third when Elia Hebel scored on a dropped fly ball by FIU right fielder Lindsey Burroughs, making the score 6-1.
 
The Bearkats added a pair of runs in the top of the fourth on a single up the middle by Ellie Grill which allowed both Hannah Scheaffer and Haleigh Carter to score and trim the margin to 6-3.

Sam Houston added a final run in the top of the seventh on a single Brodie Quinlin to account for the final margin.
 
FIU starter Sydney Birling (4-5) earned the win after limiting Sam Houston to seven hits and three runs, two of which were earned over five innings of work.  Sophomore Ella Whitney tossed the final two frames to record her first save of the season.
 
The Panthers finished the contest with nine hits and had three players finish with multiple – led by Peaden who tabbed three.
 
UP NEXT
The Panthers (19-27, 6-14 CUSA) concludes the weekend set with Sam Houston (18-28, 6-14 CUSA) on Sunday, April 28. 
 
First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET.
 
TICKETS
For more information on FIU Softball season and individual tickets, including student ticketing, call 305-FIU-GAME or visit the FIU Athletics Online Ticket Office.
 
SOCIAL MEDIA
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