Softball Recap: Manchester Starts off Right with Win over Stockbridge

Manchester had to travel to play their first game of the season, but the final result was worth the trip. They put the hurt on the Stockbridge Tigers with a sharp 21-15 win on Saturday. The Blue Devils not only won on Saturday, but they posted their biggest win since August 19, 2024 (when they won 23-2).

Harlyn Townsend

Batters Struck Out (Career)

08/02/25 @ Stockbridge	7
08/09/24 vs Callaway	3
09/18/24 vs Mt. Zion	2
10/03/24 @ Mt. Zion	1
08/19/24 @ Hardaway	1

Harlyn Townsend made a big impact while hitting and pitching. She struck out seven batters over three innings while giving up just two earned (and 13 unearned) runs off four hits. Those seven strikeouts gave her a new career-high. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with three RBI.

In other batting news, Addison Painter was incredible, getting on base in all four of her plate appearances with four stolen bases, six RBI, and two runs. What's more, she posted two hits, the most she's had since back in August of 2024. Another player making a difference was Ajah Ellison, who got on base in all three of her plate appearances with three runs, three RBI, and one triple.

Manchester always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .839. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Stockbridge only posted an OBP of .423.

Stockbridge's loss was their eighth straight at home dating back to last season, which dropped their record down to 0-2.

Coming up, Manchester will take on Spalding at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday. As for Stockbridge, they will face off against Ola at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday.