In the first game of today's doubleheader, the third game of the Bulldog Slamboree, Mississippi State (14-3) overcame a slim early deficit to earn the win over the visiting Longwood Lancers (9-4). Freshman Cori Cooper would start for the Bulldogs, throwing 4.0 innings and holding Longwood to only two hits while striking out three batters. She would give up Longwood's only run, a home run by Karleigh Donovan in the 2nd inning.
Mackenzie Toler would return the favor by getting a solo home run of her own 4th inning, her first home run of the year, to tie the game at 1-1. MSU would then take the lead and take control of the game in the bottom of the 6th inning. Emily Heimberger would lead off with a bunt and then scoot to second base on a throwing error.
Kayla Winkfield would then get to first on a bunt of her own, which advanced Heimberger to third. Following an intentional walk of Caroline Seitz, Toler would strike again with a sac fly, bringing Heimberger home. Sarai Niu would then hit a double off the wall bringing Winkfield home to get to the final score of 3-1.
MSU would turn to Holly Ward (7-1) in the 5th inning to earn the win. Ward only struck out one and gave up four hits, but kept the Lancers from scoring again in her 3.0 innnings.
The Bulldogs are currently playing Central Arkansas in the second game of today's double header. MSU will play again tomorrow against Western Kentucky