SMC Softball Drops Pair on Senior Day

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Spartanburg Methodist College softball team dropped an AAC doubleheader to Bluefield, 5-0 and 3-1, on Friday afternoon.

The Pioneers (22-9, 5-7 AAC) totaled 12 hits across the two games, recording seven in game one and five in game two, but were unable to capitalize in key moments.

Bluefield (6-28, 5-11 AAC) set the tone early in the opener, scoring once in the first inning and adding four more in the third to secure the 5-0 victory.

The loss overshadowed a standout performance from SMC shortstop Carson McCowan, who recorded a season-high three hits. The Pioneers stranded 11 runners in the contest, with their best scoring opportunity coming in the sixth inning. SMC loaded the bases with two outs, but a flyout ended the threat.

Bluefield's Isabella Smith earned the win in the circle, striking out seven to improve to 5-9 on the season. Seven different Rams recorded hits, led by Olivia Bailey with two RBIs.

In the nightcap, Bluefield again struck early, plating one run in the first inning and adding two more in the third en route to a 3-1 win.

SMC broke through in the sixth inning when McCowan tripled and later scored on a sacrifice bunt by Saleena Rollins. Jacie Ross paced the Pioneers offensively with two hits.

The Rams finished with six hits in game two, with Delana Loflin and Kenidy Harris collecting two hits apiece.

Following the doubleheader, SMC honored its six seniors: Savannah Evans, McKensleigh Parnell, Kylla Quiles, Jacie Ross, Gracie Starnes, and Adriana Stump-Frias.

The Pioneers will return to action on Saturday, hosting UPIKE for a doubleheader at Eva Grant Field. First pitch is scheduled for noon, with the start time moved up one hour.