EUGENE, Ore. - The Samford softball team finished off play at the Oregon Classic as they took on the hosts, Ducks, for the second time in as many days. The Bulldogs jumped out to an early lead before the No. 17 Oregon team took control and defeated Samford 18-2 in five innings. The Bulldogs return home with a 7-13 record on the year.

Samford struck first in the top of the opening inning, taking a quick lead thanks to a big swing from Olivia Shaw. After Brandy Phillips drew a walk, Shaw delivered a two-run home run to left field, giving the Bulldogs a 2-0 advantage. The lead was short-lived as Makinley Turner got the ball for the Dogs. After her 10-strikeout and shutout performance yesterday, she struggled to find the zone. She issued five free passes and allowed three hits, which resulted in six Oregon runs in .2 innings of work. 

Reese Hickey was the next pitcher in the circle, but the freshman lasted less than an inning, allowing three more runs as Oregon went up 10-2 after the second inning. The Ducks added three more runs against Brandy Phillips, four against Olivia Treece, and two against Claire McArthur as the Bulldog pitching staff struggled for answers. They issued 12 free passes and 15 hits as they allowed 18 runs in four innings.

Shaw led the Bulldogs offensively, finishing 2-for-3 with a home run, a double, and two RBIs. Phillips scored one of Samford's two runs and drew a walk. Katie Hart and Shannon Weems accounted for the team's other two hits, while the Bulldogs left six runners on base against the No. 17 Ducks. 

Samford returns home for a midweek game against West Georgia on Wednesday. The Wolves are 7-14 on the season, and the game is scheduled for 5 p.m.

FOLLOW THE BULLDOGS:
For the latest news and information on Samford softball, visit the official website for Samford Athletics at SamfordSports.com. Fans can also follow the Bulldogs on social media at /SamfordSports (Facebook), @SamfordSB (Twitter), and @SamfordSB (Instagram).