INDIANA, Pa. — A quick venue change didn't slow the IUP softball team, which swept Clarion while outscoring the Golden Eagles 22-1 at Podbielski Field.
The games were originally scheduled for Clarion, but rain Thursday evening made the outfield unplayable, forcing the move to Indiana. IUP was the designated road team on the scoreboard.
Game 1 went seven innings, while Game 2 ended after five innings due to the run rule.
IUP led 4-1 entering the fifth inning of Game 1 before adding two runs over the next two innings. A five-run seventh inning sealed the win.
The Crimson Hawks recorded five extra-base hits, including two doubles by senior catcher Reagan Rand and a home run by Jaycee Haidze. Kendall Young pitched a complete game, allowing six hits and striking out four to earn her ninth win of the season.
In Game 2, IUP jumped out to a 7-0 lead before Clarion recorded an out and forced a pitching change with one out in the first inning. The Crimson Hawks scored five runs off Clarion starter Rian Reed, who did not record an out.
Freshman Taylor Bumgardner allowed two hits in a five-inning shutout, earning her team-leading 11th win of the season. She recorded 15 outs without a strikeout, keeping the ball in play throughout.
Also in Game 2, senior Madison Pikula recorded her 222nd career hit with a single, becoming IUP softball's all-time hits leader.
IUP returns to PSAC West play Saturday, hosting No. 1 Slippery Rock at Podbielski Field. The Crimson Hawks trail Slippery Rock by two games in the division standings. First pitch of Game 1 is noon.
The game will also serve as IUP's Strikeout for Cancer Day, with honorary Crimson Hawk Kylie McMullen throwing out the first pitch.