Jason Walker, University of Providence Sports Information 

MINOT, N.D. - The University of Providence softball team opened up the 2023 season with two losses at the Bubble Tournament hosted by Minot State Saturday.  

The Argos first faced the host Beavers of Minot State losing 8-0 six innings. Minot started the scoring in the bottom of the first, scoring three runs on a fielder's choice groundout, a single to center and a sacrifice fly. Paige Kellog hit a home run off Carter Thornton in the third to give the Beavers a 5-0 lead and Minot would add a single run in the fourth and two more in the sixth to get the victory. Thornton pitched five innings for Providence allowing six runs on 12 hits while striking out three and walking one.  

Offensively, Taylor Mathews, Ryen Palmer and Thornton each collected one hit for the Argos who were held to just three hits.  

In game two of the day against Bemidji State, (Minn.), Providence lost 8-2. Molly Houts hit a solo HR followed by a three-run shot by Mariah Stevenson as the Beavers scored four runs in the second inning. The Argos got the first runs of the year in the top of the third when Karlie David doubled to score Taylor Mathews, then Makayla Hernandez went down the right field line to bring David home. BSU would tack on runs in the fourth and sixth to secure the win.  

David collected two hits along with Gracie Fleming who also had two hits in the game. Jaden Williams took the loss after allowing four runs on five hits in two innings.  

The Argos (0-2) are back in action Sunday facing MSU-Billings also at Minot. To watch the game live, visit www.upargos.com.