MACON, GA – The Tennessee State softball team opened play at the MUSB Invitational II with a pair of tightly contested matchups against Presbyterian and Mercer. The Tigers fell 4-0 to the Blue Hose and 2-1 to the Bears, moving to 0-8 on the season.

GAME ONE: TIGERS BATTLE IN PITCHING DUEL WITH BLUE HOSE

Kristian Holder made her fourth start of the season, working 3.0 innings and recording a strikeout. Tianna Salcido entered in relief and tossed the final 3.0 innings, striking out two while allowing four runs on four hits.

Kailyn Jean-Baptiste anchored the defense with 12 putouts and one assist. Alexis Woods and Hailey Hunt each recorded a hit, while Jace Jackson, Hunt, and Jean-Baptiste drew walks to generate scoring opportunities for the Tigers.

Jackson was hit by a pitch to open the top of the first, helping Tennessee State create early momentum before Presbyterian closed the inning with the third out. The Blue Hose threatened in the bottom half, placing two runners aboard, but a double play and a putout by Jean-Baptiste kept the game scoreless.

After six scoreless frames, Presbyterian broke through with four runs late to secure the 4-0 decision, as three quick outs in the seventh sealed the game.

GAME TWO: FOURTH-INNING SURGE LIFTS BEARS PAST TIGERS

Holder earned the start in the circle in game two, pitching 3.0 strong innings while allowing just one run on one hit and striking out one. Chelsi Ervin made her collegiate debut in relief, throwing 3.0 innings and surrendering one run on three hits while striking out three.

Jasmine Blackburn drove in the Tigers' lone run, plating Jackson with a double to right field. Hunt and Jean-Baptiste each added a hit and a walk, while Woods and Jackson reached base via walks.

Jackson ignited a two-out rally in the top of the first with a seven-pitch walk. Hunt followed with a single to third, advancing Jackson into scoring position. Blackburn then delivered a double to right field to score Jackson and give Tennessee State a 1-0 advantage.

After three scoreless innings, Mercer responded with two runs in the fourth to take the lead. The Bears held off the Tigers down the stretch to claim a 2-1 victory.

Tennessee State returns to action on Saturday, March 1, to conclude play at the MUSB Invitational II with matchups against Columbia at 10:30 a.m. and Mercer at 3:30 p.m.