Grand Junction, Colo. – The Black Hills State University softball team returned to the softball diamond today to wrap up their season series with the Colorado Mesa University Mavericks. The Yellow Jackets split the series with the Mavericks falling in the first game of the day by a score of 8-0 in five innings, but rallying in the second game to come away with the 2-0 win.

The Yellow Jackets started sophomore Kelsie Chambers at pitcher in the first game of the day. Chambers gave up four runs on three hits and struck out two batters. Chambers was tagged with the loss. Junior Nikki Chacon pitched three innings for Black Hills State. Chacon gave up four runs on three hits with three earned runs. Black Hills State struggled offensively, as they were only able to come away with one hit by senior Katie Wagner who filled the designated player position. The Yellow Jackets lost by a score of 8-0 in five innings.

Black Hills State was able to shake off the loss and able to tie the series with Colorado Mesa at 2-2 with a 2-0 win over the Mavericks in their final game of the series to improve to 3-7 in their first season in the RMAC. Senior pitcher Katie Wagner was credited with the win; she pitched all seven innings for the Yellow Jackets. Wagner gave up four hits, but did not allow a single run. Wagner only walked one batter and struck out three.

The Yellow Jackets were led offensively once again by freshman Cassie Smith who recorded two hits and one run in four at bats. Junior Kyley Barela recorded Black Hills State's second run. Barela had one hit and one run in four at bats. The Yellow Jackets scored both runs in the first inning of the game.

Black Hills State will return to action Saturday, March 17 as they host Adams State at the Black Hills State University Softball Complex, the double header is set to begin at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. MT.

For more information on Black Hills State University Athletics, visit BHSUAthletics.com