Rams Split Series with Weber State After Strong Start

Two games, 14 innings, and one win under the belt.

As the day started early, the tie between teams hung over the field

However, despite a strong start, the series ended in a 2-2 split after four hard-fought games.

The Rams opened with momentum, taking two of the four matchups with wins of 11-7 and 7-6 in the first and third games. But as the series wore on, the pressure mounted, and Weber State responded in kind.

Sunday started with a bang—literally. Catcher Carolina Buffaloe crushed a grand slam in the bottom of the first inning, marking her first career home run in dramatic fashion. The senior's big hit electrified the team and set the tone early.

"It's about keeping composure even after that moment," Buffaloe said. "Knowing I'm going to get it done and trusting that my teammates have my back as well."

While Buffaloe is most comfortable behind the plate in a defensive role, her offensive impact was undeniable, rallying the Rams to an early lead. But Weber State didn't go quietly, chipping away at the deficit with six runs of their own across multiple innings.

The Rams found their saving grace in pitcher Giselle Bentley, who held firm in the final inning and sealed the win with a clutch strikeout to close the top of the sixth.

"Giselle's competitiveness is what we're trying to get our entire staff to match," coach Jen Fisher said. "She has her own unique approach, and she's so fun to play behind. We're still building that with the rest of our staff."

Bentley and fellow pitcher Raegan Wick have stepped up significantly this season, embracing larger roles after limited innings last year.

"I mean, Giselle and Raegan were waiting in the wings last season and didn't get a ton of innings," Fisher added. "But they've really taken off this year, and I'm really excited for them."

Pitching strategy doesn't always show up in the box score, but the subtle adjustments can be the difference between a win and a loss. The fine margins were on full display throughout the series, with close calls playing a pivotal role.

One of those moments belonged to Wick, who turned a crucial double play that shifted momentum in CSU's favor.

"Getting two people out—it feels great," Wick said. "Sometimes people think, 'Oh, she's just a pitcher and won't leave her little circle,' but making a play like that is awesome because I get to be out there with my teammates and contribute in different ways."

Sunday's games contrasted sharply with Saturday's high-scoring affair. While Saturday saw runs piling up, the second day was a more methodical battle of adjustments and execution. Wick, despite struggling with one of her best pitches in Game 4, adapted to keep the Rams in the fight.

"She definitely had a great day," Fisher said. "That's what we see from her most of the time. As long as she keeps us in the ballgame and gives us a chance to win, that's all we can ask."

The Rams are a mix of experience and fresh talent, with ten true freshmen on the roster. Blending so many new faces into the team dynamic is a challenge, but their energy is proving invaluable. For seniors like Buffaloe, it's a welcomed addition.

"I think we all just want to see each other succeed," Buffaloe said. "We want to see the freshmen get their moments and contribute to the team. It's been awesome watching them grow and get those small wins."

And this is just the beginning.

With conference play on the horizon, CSU will need to build on these performances as they prepare for their home opener against UNLV.

"If we play hard, we play well," Fisher said. "I like our chances. We have youth, energy, and some really dedicated seniors guiding the younger players. Even if they're not playing a lot, those seniors have really guided (our freshman) and showed them how to work hard and run toward any deficiencies."

The Rams started strong in this series, and if they can carry that same intensity into conference play, they'll be a team to watch.

Whether it's launching grand slams, pitchers shutting batters out or keeping with the tenacity, CSU fans might be in for a wild ride this season.

Buckle up—this team is just getting started.

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