WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – The West Liberty University softball team hits the road this weekend for a critical Mountain East Conference stretch, beginning with a doubleheader at Frostburg State on Friday before traveling to Fairmont State for another twinbill on Saturday.
First pitch is set for 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Friday in Frostburg, Md., followed by a noon and 2 p.m. start on Saturday in Fairmont.
West Liberty enters the weekend at 9-18 overall and 3-5 in MEC play, looking to snap a four-game skid and gain ground in the North Division standings.
The Hilltoppers have shown flashes offensively this season, led by Paytyn Tucker, who is hitting a team-best .361 with 30 hits and 15 stolen bases. Sara Simon (.317, 15 RBIs) and Jaden Conrad (.313, 11 RBIs) have also provided steady production in the middle of the lineup, while the team continues to show depth with five regulars hitting .284 or better.
In the circle, West Liberty has leaned on a balanced rotation. Kadence Pettit (4-6, 3.17 ERA) leads the team in innings pitched, while Rylee Mangold (3.02 ERA) and Annaliese Davis (3.63 ERA) have also delivered key performances. The trio will be critical in navigating a demanding weekend against two of the top offenses in the conference.
Frostburg State enters Friday's matchup at 17-4 overall and 6-2 in conference play, sitting near the top of the North Division standings.
The Bobcats boast one of the most potent lineups in the MEC, led by Ally Myers (.411), Izabella Donaldson (.405, 4 HR), and Kylee Piconi (.394). Arden Miller has driven in a team-high 28 RBIs, highlighting the depth of Frostburg's offense.
In the circle, Donaldson has been dominant with a 1.49 ERA and eight wins, while Izzy Dietrich (2.35 ERA) provides another strong option, giving Frostburg a formidable one-two punch.
Despite Frostburg's strong start, West Liberty has had recent success in the series, winning six straight meetings, including a 10-1 run-rule victory in the last matchup in 2025.
Saturday presents another tough test against Fairmont State, which leads the North Division with an 18-6 overall record and a perfect 8-0 mark in conference play.
The Falcons feature one of the most explosive offenses in the league, led by Breonna Marietta (.459, 5 HR) and Emma Paul (.418, 29 RBIs). Fairmont has also displayed speed and consistency throughout the lineup, making them a difficult matchup from top to bottom.
In the circle, Delaney Haller (2.14 ERA) anchors the pitching staff, supported by Micah Wilson (3.24 ERA), forming a reliable rotation that has helped fuel the team's 10-game winning streak.
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.
