The Idaho State Bengals softball team will return to Miller Ranch for a pivotal Big Sky Conference series against the Sacramento State Hornets, beginning April 17. The Bengals, who currently hold first place in the conference with a 6-3 record, are coming off a mid-week win over Boise State and look to maintain their momentum as they approach the final stretch of the regular season.
This weekend’s matchup is significant for both teams, as Sacramento State trails closely behind at 5-4 in conference play. Saturday’s game will also serve as senior day for Idaho State, with eight seniors set to be honored after the conclusion of play.
Idaho State enters the series with an overall record of 30-16 and leads several offensive categories in both the conference and nationally. The team ranks first in home runs (62), batting average (.320), slugging percentage (.561), RBI (258), runs scored (279), hits (368), on-base percentage (.399), and walks (139) through 45 games. Nationally, they are ranked 28th in home runs and have averaged more than one home run per game this season.
Key players include Ava Brown, who has hit .323 with 13 home runs and a team-leading 40 RBI; Alyssa Yee, leading with a .390 average, six home runs, and 37 RBI; Sydney Groves matching Brown’s power numbers; and Jaden Moore contributing significantly off the bench. In pitching, Kasey Aguinaga leads with a 2.75 ERA across seven complete games while Marley Goluskin has tallied eight wins.
Sacramento State arrives at Pocatello holding a strong overall record of 26-15 but has struggled on the road compared to neutral-site contests. Their offense is led by Lafulafu Malepeai (.409 average) while Alexa Ortiz anchors their pitching staff with eight complete games this season.
Looking ahead, Idaho State will host Utah Valley on April 22 before finishing their regular season against Montana. With several preseason honors already awarded—including five preseason All-Conference selections—the Bengals remain favorites for another deep postseason run.
