The University of Massachusetts softball team split a doubleheader against Akron on April 18, with Brooke Musch delivering a walkoff grand slam in the first game to secure a 5-4 victory for the Minutewomen. Akron responded in the second game, shutting out UMass for a 2-0 win.
The outcome marked significant moments for several players. Musch’s seventh-inning home run was not only her first career homer but also drove in all five runs for UMass in their comeback win. Odyssey Torres reached her own milestone by recording her 100th collegiate hit during the day’s action.
In the opening game, pitcher Kelsey Blanchette started strong by retiring seven consecutive batters and striking out three in a row before Akron rallied to take a late lead. Olivia Cutuli came on in relief and earned the win after holding off further damage from Akron’s offense. The decisive moment came when Musch hit her grand slam over left center field with two outs and bases loaded, turning a two-run deficit into victory.
Game two saw strong pitching from both sides, but Akron’s Madie Jamrog threw a complete-game shutout while Tiegan Walsh led UMass at the plate with two hits. Despite threatening late, UMass could not overcome Akron’s pitching or capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The Minutewomen now hold an overall record of 16-26 (7-14 Mid-American Conference) while Akron improves to 26-21 (17-4 MAC). The series highlights individual achievements and sets up UMass for its next contest against Bowling Green scheduled for April 24.
