USC Aiken Softball Team Splits Doubleheader Against Barton

News Summary

The USC Aiken softball team faced a thrilling doubleheader against Barton, suffering a close 3-2 loss in the first game but rebounding with a dominant 14-6 victory in the second. Despite a rough start and trailing in both games, the Pacers showcased their resilience, highlighted by stellar performances, including a grand slam from Autumn Fisher. With their record now at 2-2, the Pacers are gearing up for their next match against Newberry with optimism for the season ahead.

USC Aiken Softball Team Goes on a Rollercoaster Ride Versus Barton

Wilson, N.C. – In an exhilarating doubleheader showdown, the USC Aiken softball team faced off against Barton, splitting the series with a bittersweet taste. The Pacers kicked off the competition with a narrow _3-2_ loss in the first game, only to bounce back spectacularly, clinching a whopping _14-6_ victory in the second.

A Disappointing Start

The day began on a tough note for USC Aiken, who found themselves trailing 1-0 after just one inning in the opener. Despite a valiant effort, they could not find the spark they needed to turn the game around after Barton’s aggressive takes.

In the third inning, Peri Rouillard made a notable play by hitting an infield single, giving the Pacers something to cheer about with two outs on the board. However, excitement was short-lived, as a single from Kate Newberry in the fourth inning left the team stranded once again. The Bulldogs capitalized on the moment, bringing in two more runs in the fourth to stretch the score to _3-0_.

With the clock ticking down in the seventh inning, just when all hope seemed lost, Autumn Fisher delivered! She smacked her first career home run, propelling the score to just a nail-biting _3-2_. Fisher was undeniably the star of this game, securing not just the home run but also contributing two RBIs throughout the match.

Payton Baker took charge on the mound for the Pacers, pitching a complete game while allowing three runs on six hits. Baker also showcased her skills by striking out six batters in a valiant effort.

Turning the Tide

As the second game rolled around, Barton took an early lead, once again putting USC Aiken in a bit of a bind at _1-0_. Still, the Pacers weren’t ready to throw in the towel just yet. The third inning became a turning point, with a brilliant infield single from Newberry that allowed USC Aiken to tie things up.

And then—WOW—a grand slam from none other than Autumn Fisher! The sheer energy in the stadium was electric as she turned the score in favor of the Pacers, leading _5-1_. But USC Aiken wasn’t done yet. Rouillard followed suit, clearing the bases with a brilliant triple, extending their lead to _8-1_.

Barton did not back down easily, scoring four runs in their half of the third inning, narrowing the deficit to _8-5_. However, the Pacers were determined, and a stunning home run by Mallory Shaver in the sixth pushed their lead to _9-5_.

The final inning was a display of teamwork, as multiple Pacers stepped up with big hits, collectively wrapping up the game at _14-6_. Fisher shone bright again, finishing with four hits, including a home run and two doubles, driving in an impressive five runs. Rouillard and Newberry also contributed significantly, with each accumulating three hits in the game.

Looking Ahead

The excitement doesn’t stop here for USC Aiken. With their current record standing at _2-2_, they’re already ramping up for their upcoming match against Newberry, which is scheduled for Wednesday with a doubleheader kicking off at _2 p.m._

In addition to gameplay, the Pacers have made some incredible updates to their facilities, including a full turf renovation on their softball field, ensuring players will have a great playing surface for their home opener set for _February 9_ against Francis Marion.

Head coach Jaclin Poole is focused on improving the team’s performance as they progress through the season, prioritizing player health and stamina. With both returning talent and a strong group of freshmen, the Pacers are poised for an exciting year ahead!

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: USC Aiken Softball Splits Series at Barton
• Wikipedia: Softball
• Post and Courier: USC Aiken Softball Splits Opening Series at Mount Olive
• Google Search: USC Aiken Softball
• FloSoftball: How to Watch 2025 USC Aiken vs. Newberry Doubleheader
• Google Scholar: USC Aiken Softball
• The State: USC Sports Article
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Softball