The Braves returned home for a three-game series against the Belmont Bruins this past weekend. Throughout the series, Bradley showed moments of strong defensive play and late-game energy, but ultimately struggled to keep pace with the Bruins’ consistent offense, resulting in a series sweep for Belmont.
In the first matchup, the Bruins came out aggressively at the plate and built momentum early. The Bruins capitalized on scoring opportunities and put pressure on Bradley’s defense right away. The Braves attempted to respond, loading the bases in the second inning and drawing multiple walks from Kierston McCoy, Ashley Breeding, Olivia Turner and Morgan Schlosser. However, they were unable to capitalize on those chances. The Bruins continued to dominate, led by their consistent hitting, en route to a 15-0 victory over the Braves.
In the second matchup, the Braves looked to respond and delivered a more competitive performance. Belmont struck one again, but Bradley answered with a powerful swing from McCoy, launching a home run to get the Braves on the board.
The Bruins would go on to add to their lead, but Bradley remained within striking distance. In the final inning, the Braves made a strong push as Austin Comstock reached base, followed by an RBI double from Breeding and another run driven in by Emily Organ. Despite the late rally and strong defensive plays from Schlosser, Ella Shafer and McCoy in the outfield, the Braves came up just short in a 4-3 loss.
With hopes of avoiding a series sweep, the Braves entered the final game looking to carry over their late momentum. Both teams battled early, with Bradley holding the Bruins scoreless through the first few innings.
Hits from Hilary Wilson and Kelsey Martin gave the Braves opportunities to generate offense, but they were unable to break through. The Bruins eventually found their rhythm at the plate, scoring in the middle innings with an addition of insurance runs late to pull away. Abby Rusher and Kinsley Robertson worked to limit further damage, but the Braves would fall to close out the series 4-0.
Despite the outcome, the Braves showed resilience throughout the weekend, highlighted by key contributions from McCoy, Breeding, Organ and Comstock, along with solid efforts in the circle from Rusher and Robertson.
The Braves look to bounce back as they continue conference play against Eastern Illinois and UIC.
