by Jake Bilyeu, Sports Information Student Writer

PARKLAND, Wash. – Kathryn Hatlen and Gracen Malich paced the Pacific Lutheran softball team to a 6-1 victory over Lewis & Clark Saturday afternoon. 

Hatlen provided two hits, two RBI and the game-winning single while Malich broke the game open in the bottom of the third with a bases loaded double that plated three runs. 

"We played well defensively, and had one big offensive inning," PLU head coach Lance Glasoe said. "We had more chances to score that we missed, but our defense was more than strong enough to get us the win."

The Pioneers (6-10, 1-7) jumped to an early 1-0 lead in the second inning with an RBI double, but the Lutes responded in the third inning.

Thalen Masada led off the inning with a single and advanced to third on a bunt single by Emily McConnell. Nichole Schroeder's walk loaded the bases for Hatlen who promptly singled to right field scoring Masada and McConnell. After a pair of fielder's choice ground outs loaded the bases, Malich unloaded a double to centerfield to put the game out of reach. The Lutes tacked on their sixth and final run via an error by the pitcher.

"It was the second time we saw that pitcher, so we were ready for what was coming," Malich said.  "We came up big with consecutive hits and I got more aggressive after getting down to an 0-2 count to come up with a big hit as well."

Marissa Miller pitched a complete game, giving up the one run while earning her fourth victory of the season.  

"Everybody played well, and we had lots of good communication," Malich said. "From here, we've got to continue doing what we do, keep working on individual hitting and working through game situations."

The win gave the Lutes (12-6, 4-4) a 3-1 series win over Lewis & Clark. The game was the final game of a four-game series originally scheduled for completion on March 6.

The Lutes will host Willamette on Friday, March 25 and Saturday, March 26 for two doubleheaders. Both doubleheaders are scheduled to begin at noon.