SAN JOSE, Calif. – Reina Zermeno hit a triple to lead San José State softball (16-19, 4-6 MW) in a 5-0 series opening game loss against Utah State (22-15, 7-2 MW) from Spartan Softball Stadium Saturday afternoon.
Aggies pitcher Emmalyn Brinka (8-5) was nearly untouchable in the circle, tossing a complete-game two-hitter while striking out five and walking just one. The Spartans were held off the scoreboard despite a triple from Zermeno in the sixth and a seventh-inning single by Aubrie Thomas.
Utah State did all their damage early, plating four runs in the third inning to seize control. Grace Matej delivered a two-run single in the frame, while Ariel Fifita and Kya Pratt each drove in runs as well. The Aggies added another insurance run in the sixth on a groundout by Olivia Marble.
SJSU starter Mia Reynolds (10-12) was tagged with the loss, allowing four runs on three hits and two walks over 2.2 innings. Taylor Peacock and Lacie Ham pitched in relief, combining for 4.1 innings and surrendering just one run.
The Spartans had limited offensive opportunities, leaving just three runners on base. Despite strong defensive efforts, including error-free play from the outfield and a solid showing from catcher Aneesa Almaguer, SJSU couldn't generate the spark needed to mount a comeback.
- Zermeno has a hit in three straight games
- Zermeno is tied for second on the team along with Thomas, who both have 32 hits
- Zermeno has four triples on the season
- Zermeno is hitting .337 this season to lead the Spartans
- Thomas is third on the team with a .307 average
- Reynolds leads the Spartans with 114 innings pitched and is the only Spartan pitcher with over 100 innings pitched this season
- Reynolds now has 97 strikeouts on the season and is looking for her first 100-strikeout season
- The Aggies left eight on base
UP NEXT: The Spartans host Utah State in the second of a quick two-game series on Sunday at noon from Spartan Softball Stadium. The game can be seen on the Mountain West Network.
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