NC State’s softball team won both games of a doubleheader against Delaware State, 8-0, and Wagner, 3-0, at Dail Softball Stadium Friday.
Moving to an 8-4 record, the Wolfpack easily slid by Delaware and Wagner. Sophomore Devin Wallace threw a no-hitter in the game against Wagner in a strong defensive showing. In the first game NC State’s offense was on display, as by the bottom of the fifth inning against Delaware State, the game was called with the Pack up 8-0. The Wolfpack had a slower start in its game against Wagner, but still managed to win 3-0.
Half of the Wolfpack’s runs during the Delaware game were scored by sophomore outfielder Jade Caraway and junior utility player Cheyenne Balzer, each scoring two runs. Balzer’s two runs were both home runs.
The Pack got off to a quick start, scoring a run in the bottom of the first inning against the Hornets of Delaware State. The Pack scored two more runs in the third inning. Freshman outfielder Sam Russ was able to get to first base and after stealing second, Balzer hit a home run to left-center field. The play enabled the team to take a clear 3-0 lead.
In the fourth is where the Pack really shined, scoring four runs. Balzer’s second home run of the night went to right-center field and put the Pack up 7-0. It only took one more run in the fifth inning to close the game.
The early win was beneficial to the Pack because it gave the team time and conserved energy for its next game against Wagner. Not only rest, but the win gave confidence to State as the Pack shut down Delaware State at the plate, holding the Hornets to three hits.
The three runs against Wagner came on a home run to left-center field by freshman infielder Timberlyn Shurbutt. Caraway and junior infielder Natalie Jones were both on base, scoring on the sixth-inning home run.
Overall, the two games were strong performances from NC State and showed the capability of the team. The Wolfpack will return to the field this Saturday against Ohio at Dail Softball Stadium.
