North Manchester, Ind. - Manchester put together its most complete offensive inning of the day and rode steady pitching to a 7–3 victory over Bluffton in the opener of Thursday's doubleheader at the MU Softball Field.
A historic moment came early for Manchester, as Kendal Rider stole a base in the bottom of the first inning to become the program's all-time career stolen base leader. With her 77th career steal, Rider broke the previous record of 76 held by Emily Willmann, a mark that had stood since 2015.
After Bluffton struck first with a two-run opening frame, Manchester answered in emphatic fashion in the bottom of the third, erupting for seven runs to take control of the game. The Spartans sent 11 batters to the plate in the inning, capitalizing on patient at-bats, aggressive baserunning, and timely hitting.
Rider continued to make an impact at the top of the order, finishing 2-for-3 with two RBIs, two stolen bases, and a run scored. Lexi Goodman was a key contributor at the bottom of the lineup, reaching base three times while going 2-for-2 with an RBI and two steals.
Manchester continued to pressure Bluffton defensively throughout the inning, forcing errors and executing in run-scoring situations. A clutch pinch-hit, two-RBI single from Stella Thomas provided the biggest swing of the frame and stretched the Spartans' advantage.
In the circle, Kara Burgan delivered a complete-game performance, allowing three runs on seven hits while walking four and striking out two. After surrendering early runs, Burgan settled in and held Bluffton scoreless over the final four innings to secure the win.
Manchester finished the game with eight hits and four stolen bases to open the day with a conference victory.
The second game of Thursday's doubleheader proved to be a pitchers' duel, with Bluffton edging Manchester, 2–1, after scoring twice in the top of the seventh inning.
Manchester struck first in the bottom of the fifth, manufacturing a run to break up a scoreless game. The Spartans used consistent contact and smart baserunning to push across the run, taking a 1–0 lead into the final two innings.
Erin Singleton led Manchester offensively, going 2-for-4 with a stolen base, while Crystal Cooke added two hits of her own. Manchester totaled eight hits in the game but was unable to deliver the decisive hit with runners on base, leaving seven stranded.
In the circle, Lizzy Willis turned in a strong outing, limiting Bluffton to five hits through the first six innings. Willis worked 6.1 innings, allowing two runs on five hits while issuing five walks and striking out one.
Bluffton broke the tie in the seventh with a solo home run and a sacrifice fly. Manchester brought the tying run aboard in the bottom of the inning, but Bluffton was able to close the door to secure the split.
