EUGENE, Ore. – On the final day of the Oregon Classic, Loyola Chicago wrapped up its penultimate non-conference tournament with a tough 9-1 loss to No. 14 Oregon on Sunday, March 2. The Ramblers are now 3-15 on the season. 

"I'm really excited where we're leaving the weekend because I think we leveled up. We need to get some additional reps in to help avoid giving away bases but we're ready to go compete next weekend," said head coach Alicia Abbott. 

Loyola struck first in the second inning as rookie Alli Pawlowicz launched a solo home run to left field, giving the Ramblers an early 1-0 lead. However, that was the lone hit the Ramblers managed against a strong pitching performance from Oregon's Rowan Thompson and Taylour Spencer. The Ducks responded in the fourth inning, taking advantage of a defensive error to plate three runs and take a 3-1 lead before they exploded in the fifth frame, delivering six runs to secure the run-rule victory. 

Starting pitcher Peyton Pepkowski took loss, allowing seven runs, six of which were earned, on eight hits over 4.1 innings. Maddy Hickey entered the circle for relief but was unable to stop Oregon's momentum, giving up two runs on three hits without recording an out.  

Inside the Box Score

• Freshman Pawlowicz recorded the second home run of her career, and recorded the first against Portland State (Feb. 28). 
• Sierra Sass added two stolen bases against the Ducks.
• Riley Owens had three putouts while Skyler Croker, Nat Lesnicki and Addyson Borg each added two. 

Up Next
Loyola travels to Huntington, W. Va. for its final regular season tournament, Marshall March Madness from Friday, March 7 through Sunday, March 9 featuring matchups against Valparaiso, Marshall and Buffalo.