Despite inconsistent play throughout the Mid-American Conference season, Ohio clinched the No. 6 seed in this week’s MAC Tournament after splitting a two-game series against Central Michigan.
The Bobcats (26-27, 9-13 MAC) needed to win just one game in the series to clinch is berth in the tournament, which they recorded a victory in the first game, 7-3.
“(Making the tournament) is what we have been playing for all year,” Hermanek said. “It’s all about getting tournament and then putting your best foot forward and playing your best softball at the right time. This whole monkey off your back scenario is such a stress reliever.”
Central Michigan (29-18, 15-7 MAC) and the Bobcats took turns taking leads, before retying the game, until junior third baseman Alexandria Basquez belted a grand slam in the sixth inning to cap a five-run inning.
The homer was just the second this season by Basquez, but was the third of the day for Ohio. Seniors Chelsea Hortman, a designated hitter, and Lauren Gellerman, a catcher, each hit solo homers.
Inside the circle for the Bobcats were pitchers Lauren McClary, a sophomore, and Savannah Jo Dorsey, a freshman. Both pitched at least three innings and allowed two hits, though McClary allowed a pair of earned runs.
“It wasn’t one person that capitalized on opportunities to give us a victory,” Ohio coach Jodi Hermanek said. “It was a total team win and I’m so proud of everyone.”
After clinching a spot in the tournament Saturday, Ohio played their final game of the regular season Sunday.
However, the Chippewas ousted the Bobcats on senior day in just five innings, after winning by mercy rule, 13-5.
Ohio allowed at least one run in every inning, including a four-spot in the top of the first. The Bobcats’ lone bright spot offensively Sunday came from Gellerman, who belted her 24th homer of the season. She finished the regular season tied for the second-most long balls in the NCAA.
No. 6 Ohio will begin tournament play Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. against No. 7 Bowling Green in the first round. All games in the double-elimination tournament will be played at Firestone Stadium in Akron, Oh.
The Bobcats split a two-game series against the Falcons the first weekend of April, which outscored Ohio 7-5. Last year, the Bobcats were swept in their first two games of the tournament.
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