ST. GEORGE, Utah – Utah State softball (2-7) wrapped up its weekend at the Dixie State Classic Sunday, posting a 4-3 walk-off win over the co-host Trailblazers. 

The Aggies jumped out to an early lead, scoring three runs before any outs were recorded against them. Senior outfielder Stephanie Reed and junior first baseman Gabriella Jimenez hit back-to-back singles, each coming on the first pitch. Junior shortstop Lexi Orozco followed with her third home run of the season, putting USU up 3-0.

Dixie State wasn't able to put enough offense together to score until the fourth inning. The Trailblazers got on the board with a solo home run. In the fifth, a walk and a triple brought them within a run, while a sac fly followed to tie the score at 3.

Utah State's best chance to break through came in the fifth, when the Aggies loaded the bases on two singles and a walk. However, the inning ended before they could get a runner across. Dixie State got runners in scoring position in both the sixth and seventh innings, but the USU defense held. 

In the bottom of the seventh, sophomore second baseman Tyler Thornton reached base on a Trailblazer error. After one out, Reed was hit by a pitch, while Jimenez walked to load the bases. Orozco then hit into a fielder's choice, with the out made on Thornton at home. Sophomore catcher Makenzie Macfarlane then delivered the much-needed hit, driving a single through the right side to send Reed home for the walk-off run. 

Senior Delaney Hull pitched the first four innings for the Aggies, before being relieved by junior Kapri Toone. Together, the two struck out eight batters, a high for the USU pitching staff this season, and walked three. 

Utah State will return to St. George next weekend, playing in a tournament hosted by Dixie State. The Aggies will open the weekend against Northern Colorado and the Trailblazers on Friday, Feb. 26. Play will continue on Saturday, Feb. 27, with a game against Weber State and a rematch with Northern Colorado.

Fans can follow the Aggie softball program on Twitter, @USUSoftball, on Facebook at /USUSoftball or on Instagram, @ususoftball. Aggie fans can also follow the Utah State athletic program on Twitter, @USUAthletics, Facebook at /USUAthletics and on Instagram, @USUAthletics.