WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – The West Liberty University softball team opens its home schedule this weekend with a four-game homestand at the Hilltopper Softball Complex, highlighted by Sunday's Mountain East Conference opener.
The Hilltoppers will host Salem in a doubleheader Saturday at 1 p.m. before welcoming Point Park for a conference twinbill Sunday beginning at noon.
West Liberty enters the weekend at 5-12 overall (0-0 MEC) and looking to snap a three-game skid while building momentum on its home field for the first time this season.
West Liberty has shown flashes offensively, hitting .247 as a team with 62 runs through 17 games.
Paytyn Tucker has been one of the top hitters in the MEC, batting .417 with 20 hits and a perfect 11-for-11 in stolen bases. Jaden Conrad (.320) and Sara Simon (.308, 2 HR) have provided power and run production, while Kadence Pettit (.314) continues to be a key two-way contributor.
In the circle, Pettit leads the staff with a 3.00 ERA and three wins, while Annaliese Davis (3.87 ERA) and Ashlyn Tapman (3.96 ERA) have added valuable innings. As a team, the Hilltoppers carry a 4.11 ERA.
West Liberty opens the weekend against a Salem squad hitting .227 as a team.
Salem is led by Alyssa Schultz (.333) and Ali Shrieve (.313) at the plate, while Franchesca Alvaro (3.41 ERA) anchors the pitching staff.
The Hilltoppers have had success in the series, going 3-1 against Salem last season and winning 17 of the last 20 meetings overall.
Conference play begins Sunday as West Liberty hosts Point Park in a doubleheader.
The Pioneers enter with a .225 team batting average, led by Emma Henry (.351) and Gianna Welsh (.304, 1 HR). In the circle, Julia Johnson (4-3, 3.55 ERA) has been their top arm.
West Liberty went 3-1 against Point Park last season and has won six of the last nine meetings in the series.
First pitch is set for 1 p.m. Saturday against Salem, with Sunday's conference opener against Point Park beginning at noon.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
