Graceland Splits Nonconference Softball Doubleheader with Mission University

Ozark, MO — The Graceland softball team split a nonconference softball doubleheader with Mission University on March 3, dropping the opener 3–2 before responding with a 3–0 shutout victory in the second game. The split moved Graceland to 4-14 overall (0–0 Heart of America Athletic Conference), while Mission University also stands at 1-5 overall (0–0 conference).

The Yellowjackets opened the twin bill with a tightly contested game before Mission University used a three-run fourth inning to secure the 3–2 decision. Graceland tallied eight hits but stranded multiple runners late as the Patriots held the advantage through the final frames.

Graceland struck first in the third inning when Makenzie Leake doubled on a line drive to left field, scoring McKenna Kelley to give the Yellowjackets a 1–0 lead. Mission responded in the bottom of the fourth with consecutive hits, including a two-RBI single by Cole Smith that pushed the Patriots ahead 3–1.

The Yellowjackets narrowed the margin in the fifth inning as Leake delivered an RBI single to left field that plated Sydney Bears, but Graceland was unable to capitalize on additional opportunities over the final two innings. Kelley was charged with the loss after allowing three earned runs in 4.1 innings of work, while Kaylee Henry added 1.2 scoreless innings in relief.

Graceland responded in the second game of the twin bill with a balanced attack, collecting 10 hits while the pitching staff limited Mission to five hits in a 3–0 victory.

The Yellowjackets took the lead in the third inning when Josie McCuddin lined an RBI single to right field, scoring Kelley for the first run of the game. Graceland added insurance in the seventh as McCuddin doubled to center field to bring home Kelley before Paige Piper followed with an RBI double to left field, extending the lead to three runs.

McCuddin paced the offense with a 3-for-3 performance and two RBIs, while Kelley added two hits and scored twice from the leadoff spot. In the circle, Makenzie Leake earned the win after tossing four scoreless innings, and Henry secured the save with three shutout innings of relief.

Graceland head coach Todd Verwers emphasized the team's adjustments following the opening game.

"We did a better job executing offensively in the second game and our pitchers stayed ahead in the count, which allowed us to control the tempo of the game," Verwers said. "That combination of timely hitting and strong pitching is something we want to carry into the rest of the week."

Graceland returns to action Friday, March 6 at 9:00 a.m. CST against Cottey (Mo.) at the Branson Grand Slam Tournament at Branson Rec Plex in Branson, Missouri.

For more information on Graceland softball and all of Graceland athletics visit GUjackets.com.