Eastern Wayne Today

Wayne State University's softball team faced a challenging start to their conference play, losing both games in a doubleheader against Davenport University. The Warriors, with an overall record of 11-14 and 0-2 in the GLIAC, hosted the Panthers, who improved to 11-11 overall and 2-0 in the conference.

In the first game, Wayne State's Sydney Long from Grand Blanc, Michigan, matched up against Davenport's Hailey Whisman. Both pitchers held their opponents scoreless for six innings. However, Davenport broke through in the seventh inning with two runs following a leadoff triple by Peyton Smith and three consecutive singles. Despite opportunities early on, Wayne State couldn't capitalize and lost 2-0.

Long allowed two earned runs on eight hits while striking out nine batters. Whisman delivered a five-hit shutout with seven strikeouts. Hunter Near led Wayne State offensively with two hits.

The second game saw Wayne State take an early lead when sophomore Logan Forman scored off senior Mady Ruczynski's RBI single. However, Davenport quickly responded with four consecutive singles in the third inning to take a 2-1 lead. They extended their advantage with additional runs in subsequent innings, ultimately winning 5-2.

Junior Hayden Batton pitched for Wayne State, allowing five runs (four earned) on eight hits without issuing any walks. Hannah Tahaney pitched for Davenport and gave up two earned runs on nine hits.

Savanna Disbrow excelled for Davenport with three hits and two RBIs. Madison Cole contributed two hits as well.

Wayne State looks to rebound as they continue conference play against Ferris State at Gary L Bryce Field on Sunday.