LAS CRUCES, N.M. – NM State opened its rivalry weekend against UTEP with a strong offensive showing Friday night at the NM State Softball Complex. The Aggies struck early and continued to add on through the first three innings, building separation and controlling the pace. Behind timely hitting up and down the lineup and steady work in the circle, NM State claimed an 8-3 victory in the series opener.
NM State wasted no time, scoring in the first on an RBI double from Lauren Garcia before erupting for three runs in the second, highlighted by a three‑run homer from Destan Burks. The Aggies added four more in the third, with RBIs from Madi Bachman, Destan Burks, and Faith Aragon extending the lead to 8-2. Faith Aragon settled in after a brief second‑inning surge from UTEP and closed out the game in the circle to secure the win.
Destan Burks delivered the big swing of the night with a three‑run home run, finishing with four RBIs.
Faith Aragon earned the win, striking out 10 over a complete‑game effort while also driving in a run at the plate.
Madi Bachman went 2‑for‑3 with a double, an RBI, and two runs scored.
Lauren Garcia added an RBI double and later reached base via hit by pitch.
Johnna Aragon scored twice and reached base twice from the bottom half of the lineup.
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