Softball Recap: Murphy Victorious

Murphy had to skate by with only a one-run margin when they last took the field, which might have inspired the nine-run drubbing they dealt Smoky Mountain on Wednesday. The Bulldogs' pitcher stepped up to hand the Mustangs a 9-0 shutout. The win continues a trend for the Bulldogs in their matchups with the Mustangs: they've now won eight in a row.

Not much got past Paisley Johnson, who gave up just a hit and racked up 16 Ks to keep Smoky Mountain off the board. Those 16 strikeouts set a new season-high mark for Johnson.

Grace Ledford

Runs Batted In (Career)

04/22/26 @ Smoky Mountain	3
04/14/26 @ Andrews	2
03/24/26 vs Rosman	2
04/01/26 vs Hayesville	1

On the hitting side, the team relied heavily on Grace Ledford, who went 2-for-3 with three RBI, one stolen base, and one run. Those three RBI gave her a new career-high. Piper Dalton was another key player, going 1-for-3 with two runs and one RBI.

Murphy's record is now 11-5. As for Smoky Mountain, they have traveled a rocky road recently, having lost seven of their last eight games. That's put a noticeable dent in their 3-16 record this season.

Murphy will head out to challenge Cherokee at 4:30 p.m. on Friday. As for Smoky Mountain, they will be playing at home against Franklin at 6:00 p.m. on Friday.