2016 NFCA Leadoff Classic Website

COLUMBUS, Ga. -- The No. 13-ranked Illinois Wesleyan softball team snapped a three-game losing streak with a win over Methodist on Saturday, March 12, in the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Leadoff Classic at the South Commons Complex in Columbus, Georgia.

The Titans lost by a 12-4 score to No. 10-ranked Berry College (16-2) in five innings earlier Saturday before beating the Monarchs by a 7-4 score. Methodist slipped to 3-11 this season.

Junior Alie Tarrant had two hits, including a home run, and two runs batted in to pace IWU in the win over Methodist. Tarrant was the winning pitcher, going the first 4 2/3 innings and allowing four runs (three earned) on four hits. Sophomore Mackenzie Marquis earned a save as she fanned four batters and allowed one hit in 2 1/3 shutout innings.

The Titans banged out 13 hits as seniors Laura Bonds and Danielle Smith and junior Sarah Platt each had two hits with Platt, Smith and senior shortstop Sam Gudat all rapping doubles.

A 10-run second inning for Berry was the Titans' undoing in the early game. Freshman centerfielder Jillian Runyon had two of IWU's five hits and Smith cracked a bases-loaded triple to give Illinois Wesleyan a three-run fifth inning.

What's Next?
The Titans will play Eastern Connecticut State at 11 a.m. Sunday in the "Bronze Bracket" of the NFCA Leadoff Classic and, with a win, would play the winner of the game between Ithaca and Piedmont at 1 p.m. Go here for the updated bracket.