Kentucky softball snaps four game losing streak, tops Dayton

The softball needed a win, and got it. Find out what happened and who they play next.
Kentucky Stephanie Schoonover (23) pitches during a softball game between the Oklahoma State Cowgirls and Kentucky in the Stillwater Regional of the NCAA Tournament, Saturday, May 18, 2024. Oklahoma State qwon 6-2.
Kentucky Stephanie Schoonover (23) pitches during a softball game between the Oklahoma State Cowgirls and Kentucky in the Stillwater Regional of the NCAA Tournament, Saturday, May 18, 2024. Oklahoma State qwon 6-2. | BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Kentucky Wildcats softball team put an end to their four-game losing streak with an impressive 6-2 victory over the Dayton Flyers at John Cropp Stadium on Tuesday. Now sitting at 18-10, Kentucky will look to build on the win as they host Bellarmine today at 6 p.m. Will they start a winning streak?

Offense Finally Clicking Again

Kentucky’s bats came alive early, producing nine hits and six RBIs while capitalizing on key opportunities to control the game.

The Cats scored their first run in the second inning before erupting for two more in the third and another three in the fourth to take a commanding 6-0 lead. Leading the charge was Peyton Plotts, who smashed her fifth home run of the season—a three-run blast that put the game out of reach.

McKenzie Bump had a stellar performance as well, going 2-for-3 with an RBI double. Allie Blum and Ally Hutchins also contributed with doubles, while Hallie Mitchell added a pinch-hit double in the fourth inning.

Pitching Duo Delivers

On the mound, Sarah Haendiges was dominant, striking out ten batters across five innings while allowing two earned runs on ten hits. She improved her record to 5-2 on the season with the win.

Julie Kelley provided two innings of flawless relief, allowing no hits and striking out one to shut the door on any hopes of a Dayton comeback.

What’s Next?

Kentucky looks to keep the momentum going as they host Bellarmine today at 6 p.m before jumping back into SEC play this weekend. The Wildcats will aim for consistency on offense and another solid outing from their pitching staff to try and keep the momentum going.

A win over Bellarmine would be a strong step forward as Kentucky attempts to find its rhythm before taking on Ole Miss during youth weekend at John Cropp Stadium.