The Cornell softball team split a doubleheader against Columbia on April 18 at Niemand-Robison Field. The Big Red won the first game in extra innings, 10-9, while Columbia took the second game with a 13-2 victory in five innings.
The results reflect both teams’ competitive play and highlight the unpredictable nature of college softball matchups. For Cornell, the split means another opportunity to build momentum as they prepare for upcoming games.
In game one, Columbia opened scoring with a two-run home run by Mikami in the first inning. Lauren Holt answered for Cornell with her own two-run homer to tie the score. The Big Red surged ahead in the fourth inning, tallying five runs including an RBI double from Holt and an RBI single by Sofia Hernandez. Columbia responded in later innings, fueled by multiple home runs from Mikami and Marzouca to take a late lead. Cornell rallied in their final at-bat, tying the game before Ella Harrod’s ground-rule double brought home Sofia Hernandez for the walk-off win.
Game two saw Columbia pull ahead early after O’Brien hit a two-run homer in the third inning and Messner added another solo shot in the fourth. Hernandez tried to close the gap for Cornell with a two-run home run but Columbia secured nine runs in the fifth inning to finish with a decisive win under run-rule conditions.
Cornell will return to action on Tuesday, April 21 for another doubleheader against Binghamton at Niemand-Robison Field. Both games are scheduled for afternoon starts and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
Looking forward, these contests provide both teams further opportunities as they continue through their season schedules.
