COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou Softball (21-14, 4-5 SEC) earned its eighth shutout victory of the 2017 campaign on Friday evening, as senior RHP Cheyenne Baxter's (Norborne, Mo.) tossed yet another gem in the circle.
In the Tigers' 1-0 triumph, Baxter limited the Razorbacks to four hits over seven innings, while striking out eight batters. The Norborne, Mo., native tacked on to her impressive Southeastern Conference resume this season, improving to 4-1 with a sensational 0.95 ERA in six starts.
Mizzou produced the game's only run in the third inning, started by a single from senior Chloe Rathburn (Mission Viejo, Calif.). Coach Earleywine called on freshman Gabby Garrison (Missouri City, Texas) to pinch run and she immediately produced her eighth stolen base this year. Garrison later scored in the inning, as two costly Arkansas passed balls allowed her to cross the plate.
The Razorbacks' starting pitcher, Autumn Storms, took the loss Friday despite only allowing two Tigers hits. Freshman Cayla Kessinger (Saugus, Calif.) joined Rathburn with singles on the night.
Mizzou now has six top 25 ranked victories this season, including four in SEC play. Additionally, the Tigers' series-opening win over the Razorbacks Friday marked their eighth win over current top 30 NCAA RPI ball clubs.
Hear From the Tigers
Baxter on pitching in close ballgames…
"I have a lot of confidence in myself. I know I can keep going out there and pitch strikes. It's definitely nicer if you have insurance runs and having a one-run lead can be a little nerve-racking."
Kirsten Mack on catching Baxter tonight…
"She did a much better job of being efficient and getting ahead. That's the key to her success. Then she can go to her off-speed pitches. That's where she was successful and going right after the batters."
Coach Earleywine on Baxter's performance in the circle…
"Well. I'm proud of Cheyenne. People keep saying she's a fluke. She just keeps proving everyone wrong. I don't know where we'd be without her. What an awesome surprise she has been this second half of the season. She's giving this team a legitimate chance for a postseason run."
Up Next
Game two of the weekend series is scheduled for 2 p.m. CT on Saturday, April 8. It will mark the official Mizzou Softball Stadium grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 12:30 p.m. CT. At the conclusion of the game, fans are encouraged to stick around for a pig roast, beverages and exclusive tours of the new facility.
This weekend's SEC series between the Tigers and Razorbacks is presented by MU Health Care.
Visit MUTigers.com for the latest information on all things Mizzou Softball. You can also find the Tigers on social media by liking us on Facebook (University of Missouri Softball Team) and following us on Twitter and Instagram (@MizzouSoftball).
