CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – A two-run sixth inning propelled No. 12 Virginia to a 2-1 come-from-behind victory over Liberty at Palmer Park on Wednesday, extending the Cavaliers’ winning streak to four games. The win improves Virginia’s record to 28-3 on the season, while Liberty, who had been on a seven-game winning run, falls to 14-16. The game showcased a tight contest between two strong programs, ultimately decided by timely hitting and a crucial pitching change for the Cavaliers.
The contest was a pitcher’s duel for much of the afternoon, with both teams struggling to break through offensively. Liberty struck first in the fourth inning, capitalizing on a solo home run by Savannah Jessee, her sixth of the season, according to the Liberty Flames athletic website. Jessee’s blast gave the Lady Flames a 1-0 lead that they held onto until the sixth.
Key Sixth Inning Shifts Momentum
The turning point of the game arrived in the sixth inning, beginning with a tense situation for Virginia. With Liberty still leading 1-0 and a runner on base, Cavaliers coach Joanna Hardin made a pitching change, bringing in Eden Bigham. Bigham immediately faced a challenge, striking out Jessee for the second out, but then walked the next three batters, loading the bases. She then managed to escape the jam by striking out Maci Strickland, preventing Liberty from extending their lead.
Capitalizing on the momentum shift, Virginia quickly rallied in the bottom of the sixth. Bella Cabral drew a walk, followed by a well-placed single to left center by Kelsey Hackett, just beyond the reach of Liberty shortstop Savanah Whatley. Alex Call then lined a single to left center, nearly caught on a diving attempt by Paige Doerr, tying the game at 1-1. Hanah Weismer followed with a sacrifice fly to left center, scoring Hackett and giving Virginia a 2-1 advantage.
Bigham Closes Out the Win
Bigham, having navigated a tricky situation in the top of the sixth, returned to the circle in the seventh and closed out the game. Despite allowing a one-out single, she managed to retire the remaining Liberty batters, securing the victory for the Cavaliers. Bigham finished the game with 1 2/3 innings pitched, allowing one hit, walking two, and striking out three.
Statistical Breakdown and Team Performance
While Virginia emerged victorious, Liberty presented a strong offensive challenge, outhitting the Cavaliers 5-4. Both teams, yet, struggled with runners left on base, each stranding six. Virginia’s starting pitcher, Courtney Layne, allowed one run on three hits over 4 1/3 innings, striking out five before being relieved by Taylor Smith and ultimately Bigham.
Liberty’s Camden Anders Anders (6-2) took the loss, allowing two runs on four hits, five walks, and three strikeouts. Jade Hylton led Virginia’s offense with a triple, while Call and Weismer each contributed an RBI. For Liberty, Jessee’s home run was a highlight, and Alexia Carrasquillo added a double to the Lady Flames’ offensive effort.
Series History and Looking Ahead
Virginia now leads the all-time series against Liberty 51-28, having won the last two meetings. Liberty has been on a hot streak at the plate recently, having homered in each of their last 10 games – their longest such streak since a 13-game run in February and March of 2021. Despite the loss, the Lady Flames remain strong when leading late in games, boasting an 11-2 record when ahead after the fifth inning. However, they continue to struggle against ranked opponents, remaining winless in seven games against Top 25 teams this season.
Ella Fox extended her hitting streak to seven games for Liberty, while Dani Lee continues to be a valuable pinch hitter, going 3-for-6 (.500) in those situations this season.
Liberty will now return home to Kamphuis Field at Liberty Softball Stadium after an eight-game road swing. They will host Delaware for a three-game series, beginning Friday. Virginia will continue their season with upcoming games yet to be announced.
This hard-fought victory for Virginia demonstrates their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The Cavaliers will seem to continue their winning ways as they navigate the remainder of their season, while Liberty aims to rebound and find success against future opponents.
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