Softball Recap: Austin Takes a Loss

Austin dropped their record down to 10-9 on Tuesday, which also ended the team's three-game streak of wins on the road. They came up short against the Mankato East Cougars, falling 13-3. The Packers were not able to make up for their defeat to the Cougars from their previous meeting back in May of 2024.

Katelyn Klouse made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went a perfect 3-for-3 with one stolen base and one run. Morgan Cass also deserves some recognition as she hit her first double of the season.

As for Mankato East, their win was their 13th straight at home dating back to last season, which pushed their record up to 12-1. Those home victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 1.2 runs on average this season.

On Mankato East's side, Kylinn Stangl was a major factor while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out seven batters over six innings while giving up just one earned (and two unearned) runs off three hits. Stangl has been consistent: she hasn't tossed less than six strikeouts in seven consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-3 with three RBI, two runs, and one double.

In other batting news, Mankato East got a massive performance out of Maddeline Beaty, who went a perfect 4-for-4 with two stolen bases, two runs, and one triple. Those four hits gave Beaty a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Kenley Staunton, who got on base in three of her four plate appearances with three stolen bases and three runs.

We've got plenty of inter-conference action coming up soon. Austin will face off against rival Mankato West at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday. Meanwhile, Mankato East is set to take on their familiar foe Red Wing at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday.