LUBBOCK, Texas – Sophomore Erika Cortez threw a masterful game one, helping lead Texas A&M International (21-16, 14-10 LSC) to a 2-1 victory over Lubbock Christian (26-13, 14-10 LSC) in the doubleheader's first game, clinching TAMIU a spot in the 2021 Lone Star Conference Tournament. In game two, the Lady Chaps used four solo home runs to help defeat the Dustdevils 8-1 in game two.
 
Game 1: Texas A&M International 2, Lubbock Christian 1
 
In a classic pitcher's duel, Cortez and LCU's Taylor Franco battled it out the entire way.
 
The Lady Chaps struck first in the third inning, taking a 1-0 lead on an RBI double.
 
Despite not being able to successfully capitalize on earlier opportunities, the Dustdevils did so in a big way in the top of the sixth.
 
Junior Darrian Smith notched a two out, two RBI single in the inning to give TAMIU the lead, one it wouldn't relinquish.
 
Cortez (11-7) threw a complete game, allowing one run, four hits and struck out four on the afternoon to help the Dustdevils end a six game skid.
 
Offensively, senior Morgan Chavarria led the way going 2-for-4, while Smith, junior Heather Ruiz and sophomore Victoria Maldonado each added a hit as well.
 
Game 2: Lubbock Christian 8, Texas A&M International 1
 
In game two, Lubbock Christian used the long ball to help lead itself to the 8-1 victory.
 
In the bottom of the second, LCU took a 3-0 lead on an RBI single and a two RBI double.
 
TAMIU responded to cut the deficit to 3-1 in the top of the third, when Chavarria scored on a Lady Chap error.
 
LCU then scored its next four runs by way of solo home runs, with back-to-back coming in the third, one in the fourth and one in the sixth, before scoring its final run in the sixth on an RBI single.
 
Smith (2-2) got the start and threw 4.1 innings, allowing six runs, six hits, two walks and struck out two.
 
Senior Miranda Martinez pitched in relief, allowing two runs and three hits in 1.2 innings.
 
Offensively, senior Shelby Edwards and junior Briana Arredondo both finished 2-for-3 at the plate, while Smith and Chavarria both contributed a hit.
 
TAMIU now returns home for the final home weekend of the season beginning on Friday, April 23. Texas Woman's is the first to come to Laredo, with first pitch slated for 12 p.m.