Virginia Tech fell to Clemson 4-2 in the opening game of their softball series on April 2 at Tech Softball Park.
The game was significant as it matched two Atlantic Coast Conference teams with strong records. Virginia Tech, ranked No. 11/12, entered the contest with a record of 31-5 overall and 7-3 in conference play, while Clemson stood at 25-13 overall and 7-6 in the ACC.
Despite outhitting their opponent for the thirty-fourth time this season, Virginia Tech could not overcome an early deficit. The Hokies left runners on base in the first inning before Clemson took advantage of a miscue and a walk to hit a three-run home run in the top of the second. Virginia Tech responded immediately with two runs: singles from Kylie Aldridge and Gaby Mizelle set up Annika Rohs to drive in Aldridge, followed by Jordan Lynch bringing Addison Foster home with another single.
Clemson added another run in the fourth inning on an RBI single through the left side. In the seventh inning, Lynch doubled to center field for Virginia Tech but was stranded as Clemson secured the win.
Gaby Mizelle tied her career high with three hits during the game. Both Lynch and Rohs recorded one run batted in each. Pitcher Emma Mazzarone allowed only four hits while pitching her sixth complete game of the year.
With this result, Virginia Tech’s all-time record against Clemson stands at seven wins and six losses. The teams are scheduled to continue their series on Friday at 6 p.m., with coverage available on ACC Network Extra.
