Penguins split softball twinbill with Valpo

VALPARAISO, Ind. — Youngstown State University split a Horizon League softball doubleheader with Valparaiso on Saturday, losing 4-1, before winning, 7-2.

In the opener, Andrea Zappia (17-6) struck out nine during a three-hitter.

Valparaiso collected eight hits, with Courtney Laferie and Ashley Wolter getting two apiece.

Kristen McDonnell had two hits including her fifth home run, while Rochelle Vanyi doubled for the Penguins.

Both teams left four runners on base.

Becky Hibner (1-6) gave up five hits and took the loss. Reliever Cheryl Cale pitched the final 12‚Ñ3 innings.

Of the Penguins’ nine hits in the second game, McKenzie Bedra had three for four RBIs.

Two of Bedra’s hits were home runs —Nos. 8 and 9.

Also for Youngstown (11-30, 5-13), Kristen Bair and Katy Potokar had two hits apiece, while McDonnell drilled a two-run triple in a three-run third inning that put YSU ahead for good.

Cale (6-7) allowed only five hits through the first six innings before Hibner helped shut down the home team in the seventh.

Mallory Gill had two hits for Valparaiso (28-15, 10-4).