Graceland Softball Battles Park in Conference Twinbill
PARKVILLE, Mo. — The Graceland University Yellowjackets softball team wrapped up its road schedule on Saturday afternoon, dropping both games of a Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) doubleheader to Park University.
The Yellowjackets (12-34 overall, 5-17 HAAC) were held scoreless across the two contests, falling 10-0 in five innings in Game 1 and 2-0 in a pitchers' duel during Game 2. The Pirates improved to 30-12 overall and 18-6 in conference play.
In the opener, Park scored four runs in the first inning and four more in the second to take control early. Starter Paige Pialet (2-17) was charged with the loss, allowing seven earned runs over one inning. Kady Vandemark came on in relief, pitching three innings and surrendering three runs while striking out two.
Graceland struggled to find traction against Park pitcher Lauren Fiene, who threw a no-hitter with five strikeouts over five innings. The Yellowjackets managed just one baserunner, courtesy of a walk to Kaitlyn Cook.
In Game 2, Graceland generated more offense but was unable to push a run across. The Yellowjackets tallied six hits and stranded eight runners against Park's Holly Vaught, who threw a complete-game shutout to improve to 13-3.
Senior pitcher Sammi Bradshaw (8-14) turned in a strong effort in the circle for Graceland, allowing six hits and one earned run across six innings with three strikeouts. Bradshaw needed just 107 pitches to complete her outing.
"Today was a day where we played solid softball but couldn't quite get the big hit when we needed it," said Graceland head coach Todd Verwers. "Credit to Park for making pitches in tight spots. Our players competed hard, and we're proud of the way they represented the program."
Park scored in the first inning when Courtney Riffer singled, stole second, and scored on a passed ball. The Pirates added an insurance run in the fifth on an RBI triple from Addison Arndt.
Offensively, Graceland was led by senior infielder Jayda Gay, who went 2-for-3 with a triple in the seventh inning of Game 2. Catcher Malorie McKinney recorded two singles, while freshman outfielder Alyssa Good and sophomore utility player Aliyah Farrell each added base hits.
The Yellowjackets' defense was sharp, committing no errors in either game. Graceland pitchers combined for 15 groundouts across both contests, working effectively to limit Park's power threats after a tough first game.
Despite the sweep, the second game featured a more aggressive approach at the plate, with Graceland drawing walks and advancing runners into scoring position multiple times. However, timely hits remained elusive against the Pirates' defense.
With the losses, Graceland's regular-season record dropped to 12-34 overall and 5-17 in HAAC competition. Park's sweep helped them maintain position among the conference's top teams at 30-12 overall and 18-6 in league play.
The Yellowjackets will have a quick turnaround as they host Clarke University tomorrow, Sunday, April 27, at North Park in Lamoni, Iowa, for the 2025 season finale. First pitches are scheduled for 2 p.m. and 4 p.m..
For more information on Graceland softball and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.