Utah State softball secured a dramatic 7-6 victory over Nevada on March 21 after senior Grace Matej hit a walk-off home run at LaRee & LeGrand Johnson Field.
The win was notable for its late-game heroics, as the Aggies overcame a one-run deficit in the bottom of the seventh inning. The game highlights Utah State’s resilience and ability to rally under pressure.
Senior Kaylee Erickson tied the game with a two-run home run, scoring Kya Pratt. Later in the inning, Matej delivered her second home run of the day to clinch the win for Utah State. “Her second homer of the day walks it off for the Aggies!” said USU Softball in a statement posted on social media.
Freshman Kendall Cochran started for Utah State, pitching six innings and allowing five runs on eleven hits while striking out two batters. Freshman Jordyn Lish pitched in relief during the seventh inning, giving up one run but keeping Utah State within reach. Senior Alex Bunton also contributed with a three-run home run earlier in the game.
Matej finished 2-for-3 at bat with two home runs, marking her second multi-home run game this season. Erickson went 2-for-2 with two runs and two RBIs, reaching base twice by being hit by pitches. Pratt recorded multiple hits as well, going 2-for-4 with two runs scored. Bunton added three RBIs and drew a walk.
The four home runs hit by Utah State were their most in a single game this season and their highest total since hitting six against Nevada last year. Matej’s walk-off was Utah State’s first since Ariel Fifita did so against New Mexico last season and marked her second career walk-off home run.
Utah State (14-16, 3-2 Mountain West) will conclude its series against Nevada at LaRee & LeGrand Johnson Field on Sunday at noon.
