SPORTS: Softball bounces back with two wins after prior loss
By Dilean Mendez
Bridge Staff Intern
Published Tuesday, March 24, 2026
After a tough loss earlier this month, the Texas A&M International softball team bounced back with a strong showing, sweeping UT Dallas in a doubleheader on March 15.
The Dustdevils fell 6–2 to No. 13 Oklahoma Christian on March 6, where an early 4-run second inning put them behind. Although the team showed effort late in the game, including a two-RBI single from freshman first baseman Isabella De Los Santos in the seventh inning, they were unable to close the gap.
TAMIU softball pitcher Kylie Goad winds up to release the ball toward the plate at the TAMIU Softball Field on March 6, 2026.
However, the team responded the following weekend with two wins against UT Dallas, 8–0 and 11–7. Compared to their previous performance a week before, the Dustdevils showed greater consistency on both offense and defense. Players like freshman catcher Austyn Marriage and senior outfielder Victoria Espinoza contributed greatly to the team’s scoring.
Coach Scott Libby acknowledged both the challenges and progress the team has experienced so far.
“One thing that will remind the team is that it’s a quick turnaround,” Libby said. “There’s not too many days off in between games, and after a loss, and even after a win, you need to start focusing on the next game, the next practice, preparing for the next team.”
Libby also said he feels confident about where the team stands moving forward.
“I feel very good about them,” he said. “Twenty-four games left, and we’re four games out of a playoff spot; so, even though it’s been a rough start, we’re right there. Our fate is in our hands.”
He also highlighted standout players.
“A couple of pitchers have [stood out]—Kylie Goad and Nevaeh Herrera,” Libby said. “And then, as far as on the offensive side, I’ve really been impressed with a freshman by the name of Austyn Marriage.”
Espinoza shared how the recent games impacted her confidence and the team’s energy.
“I am super happy,” she said. “I’ve been in a slump for a while, and that win is making me feel good about the next couple games.”
She also noted a shift in team energy.
“This past week, we had great energy… everybody was happy … I’m sure it will carry into this weekend,” Espinoza said.
With several games still left in the season, the Dustdevils look to keep building momentum and stay in the fight for a playoff spot.
