DES MOINES, Iowa — The Iowa State softball team traveled to Des Moines, Iowa, to compete in the Big 4 Classic, facing off against in-state rivals Drake University, the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa (UNI). Fresh off two decisive wins over DMACC and NIACC, the Cyclones looked to continue their momentum.
The weekend began Friday with a thrilling matchup against Drake. Both teams delivered offensively, racking up 12 hits each and launching a combined five home runs. Despite jumping to an early 11-2 lead, Iowa State couldn’t hold off a relentless Bulldogs comeback, eventually falling 12-11 in a heartbreaker.
Next, the Cyclones took on the Iowa Hawkeyes in what felt like a preview of the Cy-Hawk series to come in the spring. The game was a back-and-forth battle with both teams trading big innings. In the end, Iowa State came out on top, securing a narrow 7-6 victory behind 10 hits, six of which were for extra bases.
The Cyclones then wrapped up the weekend in a dominant fashion with a 12-5 win over UNI, showcasing both offensive firepower and strong pitching to finish the tournament on a high note.
“I was happy with what they pieced together over the weekend and excited with the results over the three games,” Iowa State head coach Jamie Pinkerton said.
Iowa Recap:
Angelina Allen plays key role in putting the Cyclones on the board
Senior outfielder Angelina Allen was a star offensively against Iowa. Allen started strong with a double in the bottom of the first inning. The outfielder then went on to score for Iowa State in the bottom of the third inning.
In that third inning, the Cyclones put up four runs, with Allen having a double. As Allen sets a great example, she knows these young players are ready to start their own legacy.
“I think this young group is pushing us to be better,” Allen said. “They’re coming in trying to take a position and that’s what we need. Our veterans need to be pushed.”
During the fall season, it is clear that anything can happen and practice is a key role in claiming one’s spot.
“I think just leading by example comes from practice as well,” Allen said. “We try to implement everything we do in a game in practice. They are a really good group of younger girls.”
It’s clear this young Iowa State team is ready for greatness with great performances across the board.
“They want to be here and leave a good impact here at Iowa State,” Allen said.
Jaiden Ralston sets the standard for the young Cyclone pitchers
Junior pitcher Jaiden Ralston holds a pivotal role amongst the pitchers due to her experience. She faced pressure, but managed to have a few stellar innings against Iowa.
Ralston made her debut for the game in the top of the third inning. She was put in a tight position as the Hawkeyes were on the verge of scoring and closed the inning with zero runs allowed.
Throughout Ralston’s time on the mound she acquired four strikeouts in two innings. The performance of Ralston should leave a good impact on the underclassmen pitchers.
“They just need to compete,” Ralston said. “I guess we’re still young too.”
Weekend Recap:
Cyclones’ offense dominates the weekend
Iowa State’s bats were on fire throughout the tournament, and they finished with two wins and one loss. The Cyclones’ offense consistently delivered, scoring 10 or more runs in each game.
The hitters took advantage of the runners in scoring position all weekend.
“We came through when we needed to, in the moments when we had baserunners,” Pinkerton said.
Iowa State’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities was key to their success, with players like junior Paige Nakashima and senior Angelita Fuentes coming in clutch.
“[Nakashima] and [Fuentes] came off the bench and hit home runs, but overall, we got the key hits when we needed them,” Pinkerton said.
Over the three games, the Cyclones racked up an impressive 30 runs, 34 hits, and more than 10 extra-base hits, proving that this young team is ready to make noise this season.
“We came through when we needed to, especially with runners in scoring position,” Pinkerton said.
Iowa State will look to carry its momentum into its next matchup against Kirkwood Community College. The game will be held at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Cyclone Sports Complex.
