SMC Splits on Day One of CAC Classic

Duncan, S.C. – The Spartanburg Methodist College Pioneers split their two games on Friday's opening day of the CAC Classic at Tyger River Park in nearby Duncan. The Pioneers (16-13, 1-3 CAC) began the day with a 4-2 loss to Florida National before bouncing back with a 10-1 rout of Haskell to close out the day.

In Game One, the Conquistadors broke a 2-2 tie in the fifth inning by plating two runs to secure the win. The Pioneers managed just four hits—two from Gracie Starnes and two from Alex Stuckey—in the loss. Stuckey drove in both of SMC's runs, while Starnes crossed the plate twice.

In the fifth inning, Florida National loaded the bases with three straight hits to start the frame. The Conquistadors then capitalized with back-to-back sacrifice flies, bringing in two runs. Holding a two-run lead, Florida National pitcher Brunella Beteta retired nine consecutive batters to seal the victory.

The nightcap saw the Pioneer offense come alive with 11 hits while capitalizing on six Haskell errors to cruise to a 10-1 win. SMC extended a 1-0 lead in the fifth inning by exploding for five runs on three hits and two additional Haskell errors. In that frame, Alex Stuckey delivered a two-RBI single, while Carson McCowan followed up with a two-RBI double to fuel the attack.

SMC starting pitcher Kyla Quiles improved her record to 7-4 with a complete-game effort, allowing eight hits while striking out five.

The tournament continues Saturday, with the Pioneers set to face Fisher at 11 a.m. and Carolina at 1 p.m.