ARDEN HILLS, Minn.—Bethel University's softball team entered the day still having a chance to make the MIAC Playoffs, but unfortunately a pair of setbacks against Hamline University Tuesday afternoon determined that BU will not reach the postseason in 2018. The Royals (14-20, 7-13 MIAC) dropped both games to the Pipers (10-12, 16-20 MIAC) by final scores of 5-2 in their home finale.
 
Bethel posted 11 hits in Tuesday's opener, which included a double from Jamie Axelberg and Jana Roste. Mariah Uphoff finished 3-for-3, while Allie Fauth and Axelberg both collected a pair of hits.
 
Hannah Schmidt pitched the full seven innings for BU, surrendering 11 hits and two walks, while striking out three in the complete-game performance.  
 
The Royals knew that the playoffs were no longer an option after dropping the first game, so they sought to play as many players as they could in game two. As a result, 17 different players got at least one at bat. Jamie Axelberg stayed in the lineup the entire contest and finished 2-for-3 with a run, while Cassidy Abbott ended 2-for-2. Olivia Dubois had BU's only RBI of the game on a groundout to third.  
 
Morgan Meissner allowed seven hits and one walk, while striking out four in 7.0 innings pitched. It was Meissner's first-ever complete game performance.
 
Bethel closes out their season on Wednesday, May 2, when they travel to Northfield, Minn., to take on St. Olaf College. The Royals and Oles will play two games, beginning with the first at 3:30 p.m.