MACON, Ga. | The Alabama State University fell to Mercer University 17-0 to open play at the Mercer Invitational on Thursday.

Mercer sophomore Grace Roark tossed a three-hit shutout and recorded eight strikeouts over 5.0 innings. 

Freshman Kaitlyn Hill (0-4) started and took the loss in the circle for Alabama State (0-11).

Offensively, the Hornets were paced by freshman Talee Sims, who went 1-for-2 on the day.

HOW IT HAPPENED

Alabama State managed zero chances with runners on third in the shutout, going a total of 0-for-2 with runners in scoring position. The Hornets last got a runner on third in the fifth, when junior Alana Scott made it 60 feet away from scoring with two outs.

GAME NOTES

» Alabama State pitchers faced 32 Mercer hitters in the game, allowing five ground balls and four fly balls while striking out three.
» Sims led the Hornets at the plate, going 1-for-2.
» Mercer was led offensively by senior Hallie Langford, who went 2-for-3 with two doubles and four RBI.
» Roark led the Bears pitching staff, throwing five scoreless innings.

Alabama State continues play in the Mercer Invitational against Jacksonville University on Friday at 10 a.m.(CT)/11 a.m. (ET)