ANGELO, Tex.—Despite a 6-run fourth inning, the Adams State University softball team was on the bottom end of a narrow 9-8 loss to Texas A&M International on Friday morning at the 2017 Angelo State George McCorkle Challenge. The game, which was the Grizzlies first of the season, saw them battle back after trailing 9-2 after two and half innings.

The game opened up with TAMI scoring two runs in the first inning on two ground outs as there were three walks allowed.

In the bottom of the inning, ASU stormed back and tied the game at two with a Gabrielle Griego double that scored senior Paige Reichmuth and junior Mackenzie Villarreal, who each reached on walks.

The second inning halted any sense of momentum the Grizzlies may have built up as two walks started the second inning before a wild pitch forced the runners to second and third. After two quick outs, TAMI rattled off a double to score the two runs before another walk and wild pitch had TAMI threatening again. After a fourth walk in the inning, a single and double made the score 8-2.

They added an insurance and the eventual game-winning run in the third inning before junior Madisen Vrabrel came in and pitched four scoreless innings.

On the offensive side, ASU had their 6-run outburst in the bottom of the fourth that included a triple by sophomore outfielder Tyler Hays and three straight walks, including a bases loaded walk by senior Kalin Johnson. After Reichmuth fielder's choice that scored a run, senior Marissa Harmon had a 2-RBI double before she scored on a double from Griego. The Grizzlies had Griego on second but a great relay play from left field caught her trying to advance to third.

The Grizzlies return to action this afternoon when they take on Emporia State.