Shippensburg softball powered through yet another packed week, finishing 5-1 across matchups against the likes of Shepherd, Mansfield and Millersville. 

The Raiders showed off both that offensive firepower and dominant pitching that they have come to be known for lately as the postseason approaches.

The week began at home for the Raiders with a split against Shepherd. In Game 1 of the doubleheader, the Raiders pounced early, piling six runs in the first inning alone which ultimately played the role to a 9-1 win in five innings. 

The offensive onslaught was thanks to contributions all across the lineup, including multiple RBIs from senior Rilee Ehrlacher and sophomore Gianna Cimino. Sophomore Dani Hayward was also dominant on the bump, allowing just one unearned run on four hits across the five innings. 

Game 2 of the doubleheader, however, was unfortunately the one speed bump in SU’s week. 

Although the Raiders were able to collect six hits, Shippensburg was unable to get those baserunners to cross the plate, falling 3-0. 

Shepherd did capitalize on key moments, including a home run and some extra-base hits, while Raider starter Kaira Zamadics struck out four, but ultimately took the loss. 

The Raiders woke up quickly in their next doubleheader against Mansfield. Game 1 was a complete batting party, as Shippensburg rolled to an 11-2 victory behind 15 hits in five innings. 

Senior Caitlyn Martell and junior Brie Wilmot hit home runs, while senior Lindsey Haser drove in three. Hayward once again delivered in the circle, striking out seven and earning her 20th win of the season. 

Shippensburg then earned a 9-1 win in five innings during Game 2. 

SU broke the game open with a five-run fourth inning, showcased with RBIs from Martell and freshman Leah Schwalm. Zamadics and Hayward both shined in the circle, with Hayward striking out six in relief and putting the game on ice. 

Closing the week, Shippensburg hosted Millersville and continued its dominant mentality with yet another sweep. Unlike other wins, Game 1 this time was more of a battle.  

The Raiders earned a 4-1 win behind yet another magical performance from Hayward. The ace went the distance, allowing just three hits while striking out eight. 

On the bats side, Martell and Schwalm each came through with pivotal extra-base hits to provide the necessary run support for the win. 

The finale capped off the amazing week for the Raiders. Shippensburg exploded for 10 runs in a 10-2 victory in six innings. 

The discipline at the plate and timely hitting was what really broke through Millersville’s pitching. Haser led the way with three RBIs, Schwalm added a home run, Zamadics earned the win and Hayward closed things out in relief to earn the sweep. 

Now sitting at 32-14 overall and 19-9 in PSAC East play, the Raiders have put themselves in a rather favorable position as the regular season comes to a head. 

With one final week remaining before the PSAC Tournament, Shippensburg will look to carry the momentum into a crucial stretch with the remaining doubleheaders at Lock Haven on Friday and closing the season the next day on home turf against Kutztown.The games could decide SUs fate in the standings.

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