UTA Softball opens season with 3 losses

The Shorthorn: file photo Sophomore outfielder Krista Rude attempts to bunt Feb. 19, 2016, at Allan Saxe Field.The UTA Softball team (1-4) concluded its opening weekend with three consecutive losses at the Arizona State Tournament.

Saturday: Saint Mary’s College 4, UTA 1

Sophomore pitcher Sam Clakley started the game with a 1-2-3 inning. At the plate, the Mavericks put two runners in scoring position with two outs, but a pop-up fly ball to the pitcher ended the inning, scoreless.

The Gaels took a 1-0 lead with an RBI single to left field in the top of the second. Both teams remained scoreless for the next two innings, until junior infielder Sandra Mendoza hit an RBI single up the middle to…