Razorbacks Softball Finishes Mary Nutter Classic

Dominant Victory Over Baylor

Arkansas wasted no time asserting its dominance against Baylor, jumping to an early lead in the first inning. Reagan Johnson ignited the offense with a leadoff double, followed by a bloop single from Kailey Wyckoff. A bases-loaded walk drawn by Courtney Day brought in the first run, and another walk from Kennedy Miller extended the lead to 2-0.

The Hogs exploded in the second inning, plating six runs on five hits. Bri Ellis delivered a crushing three-run home run to left field, her eighth of the season, to extend Arkansas’ advantage. Raigan Kramer followed with an RBI single, and the Razorbacks took full control with an 8-0 lead.

On the mound, Robyn Herron was sensational, throwing four no-hit innings with six strikeouts. The only Baylor baserunner came via a hit-by-pitch. Lexi King pitched the fifth and final inning, nearly preserving the combined no-hitter, but a bad-hop grounder allowed the Bears their only hit. Arkansas sealed the win via the run-rule, handing Herron her fifth victory of the season.

Tough Loss Against No. 4 UCLA

Facing the No. 4-ranked Bruins, Arkansas aimed to keep its momentum rolling. Freshman Payton Burnham got the start, and the Razorbacks threatened early with a scoring opportunity in the first inning. However, UCLA’s pitching stifled Arkansas’ bats.

The Bruins struck first with an RBI single in the third inning before Jordan Woolery crushed a three-run home run to push their lead to 4-0. Arkansas responded in the fourth, as Bri Ellis continued her power surge with a solo shot to center field, marking her ninth homer of the season. Reagan Johnson provided a spark with her speed, notching two infield singles.

UCLA tacked on another run in the fifth and exploded for four more in the sixth to secure a 9-1 victory, ending Arkansas’ 14-game winning streak—the second-longest in program history.

Looking Ahead

Despite the loss, Arkansas leaves the Mary Nutter Classic with valuable experience and a solid record. The Razorbacks return home to Bogle Park for the Wooo Pig Classic (Feb. 28-March 2), where they will face Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri State. With their bats heating up and pitching staff showing promise, Arkansas remains a formidable force as the season progresses.