On a day when both hits and runs were hard to come by, Kami Kortokrax seized the spotlight with a crucial two-run homer early in the game, thrilling the packed stands at Buckeye Field.
Kortokrax's pivotal home run came in the first inning, propelling Ohio State to a 3-2 triumph over Maryland, clinching a weekend series sweep in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 1,641—the largest of the season. This victory marks Ohio State's seventh consecutive win, enhancing their season tally to 27 wins against 17 losses, including an 8-9 record in Big Ten matchups. Conversely, Maryland's struggles continue, falling to 18-27 overall and 4-13 in the conference.
The standout moment of the game occurred when Kortokrax, fresh from an injury scare in Saturday's matchup, smashed a 3-2 pitch over the right field fence in her very first at-bat. This home run, her team-high 10th of the season, set the Buckeyes on a winning path.
Following Kortokrax’s lead, pitcher Allison Smith dominated from the mound, surrendering just three hits and striking out six over 5.2 innings. Emily Ruck took over late, securing the final outs in the sixth and maintaining control in the seventh to notch her first save of the year.
The Buckeyes expanded their lead in the fifth inning through strategic hits by Kaitlyn Farley and Taylor Heckman, before Maryland narrowed the gap in the sixth with runs batted in by Jaeda McFarland and Mazie MacFarlane. Ruck's timely intervention quelled Maryland's rally, ensuring Ohio State's lead held firm.
The past week has been exemplary for Ohio State, with six wins including a doubleheader sweep against Penn State and a win over Pittsburgh, complemented by this weekend's dominant performance against Maryland. Over these games, Ohio State pitchers have excelled, conceding just nine earned runs across 41 innings, with Smith and Ruck delivering standout performances.
Looking ahead, Ohio State will host Illinois in the upcoming weekend for the final regular-season series at home. Fans can catch the action live, with tickets available ranging from $4 to $8, ensuring everyone can experience the excitement as Ohio State aims to continue their impressive form.
