LOGAN, Utah – Utah State softball (13-28, 3-15 MW) closed the non-conference portion of its season Tuesday, falling to BYU, 4-0, at home. 

Utah State had a strong start to the game, retiring the first three BYU batters and opening the home half of the first with back-to-back singles from senior outfielder Stephanie Reed and senior designated player Leah Molina. Both runners advanced into scoring position, but were left stranded at the end of the inning. 

The Cougars got their first runners on base in the second, but did not score until the third. Two singles and a USU error loaded the bases for BYU with one out. The Aggies made one out at the plate on the next at-bat, but a single to the left field warning track sent two runs home. The Cougars then added to their lead with back-to-back solo home runs in the top of the fourth inning. 

Utah State got one runner on in the third as senior outfielder Kayla Fielder reached on an error, but didn't record another hit until the fourth. Sophomore catcher Makenzie Macfarlane and sophomore outfielder/first baseman Mazie Macfarlane opened the inning with a single each, but a strikeout and a double play ended the inning. 

After retiring the Cougars in order in the top of the seventh, the Aggies looked to make the comeback in the bottom of the inning. USU put two runners on on just two pitches to start the inning, as Mazie Macfarlane reached on a BYU error and junior first baseman/catcher Gabriella Jimenez singled. Junior shortstop Lexi Orozco then reached on a fielder's choice, leaving runners on the corners. The game ended with those runners stranded, with the final two outs coming on a strikeout and a groundout. 

Senior Delaney Hull made the start in the circle for the Aggies, throwing three innings before being relieved by freshman Jessica Stewart. Together, the two struck out four batters and did not allow any walks. 

Utah State will close the season at home this weekend, hosting New Mexico for a three-game series. The Aggies will take on the Lobos in two games on Friday, May 14 and a single game on Saturday, May 15. Action will get underway at noon both days.

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.