Hokies Stay Hot, Defeat Michigan State to Advance Stay Perfect

By Colby Talley

Staff Writer

February 12, 2022

After Friday’s pair of games both featured the Hokies overcoming deficits to win by a slim margin, their first game on Saturday was a welcome change of pace.

Virginia Tech (3-0) made easy work of the Michigan State Spartans (2-2) in their 5-1 victory with a performance that was more akin to what the fanbase was expecting headed into the season.

Hokies freshman pitcher Emma Lemley received her second career start in just as many days and recorded seven strikeouts in four innings. Lemley also showed improved control as she allowed only four walks compared to the eight she gave up against Wisconsin.

Sophomore pitcher Mackenzie Osborne made her first appearance of the season in relief of Lemley. Osborne maintained the quality play in the circle as she recorded five strikeouts in three innings.

The lone blemish on Osborne’s performance came in the final inning when she allowed a solo home run to Michigan State outfielder Jessica Mabrey.

Hokies outfielder Emma Ritter got the scoring started in the second inning with a deep triple that scored pinch runner Maddy Federico. Ritter herself was later driven when infielder Bre Peck grounded into a fielder’s choice at first base.

The fourth inning saw the Hokies further increase their lead as Mackenzie Lawter and Cameron Fagan drove in a combined three runs with a couple of singles.

With today’s victory, the Hokies stand as one of the only undefeated teams left in the Northern Lights/Southern Nights Invitational.