Game Recap: Game 1 - University of the Ozarks
In a commanding performance from start to finish, the Rhodes College softball team defeated Ozarks (Ark.) by a score of 4–0 on February 14, 2026, in Millington, Tennessee. The Lynx combined timely hitting with dominant pitching, capitalizing on key offensive opportunities while silencing the Eagles' lineup to secure the shutout victory and remain unbeaten on the season.
Key Performances
Leading the offensive effort was Kate Ledlie, who went 1-for-3 with an RBI double and scored a run, helping spark Rhodes' productive fifth inning. Talia Travis also contributed a clutch RBI double, while Emma Caplinger delivered an RBI single to center field to extend the Lynx lead. Isabella Phelps added a hit and scored a run, showcasing Rhodes' balanced offensive attack throughout the lineup.
On the mound, Gina Dudley delivered a stellar outing, pitching five shutout innings while allowing just three hits and striking out two to earn her second win of the season. Abby Froelich closed out the game with two scoreless innings, allowing three hits and striking out two to secure the save and complete the combined shutout.
Game Highlights
Rhodes opened the scoring in the second inning when Isabella Phelps stole third and scored on an Ozarks error, giving the Lynx an early 1–0 advantage. Caplinger extended the lead in the third inning with an RBI single, scoring Isabela Barber. The Lynx broke the game open in the fifth inning with back-to-back RBI doubles from Ledlie and Travis, extending the lead to 4–0. Rhodes pitching was dominant throughout, holding Ozarks scoreless and stranding multiple baserunners to preserve the shutout.
Game Recap: Game 2 - Webster University
In a hard-fought matchup that featured momentum swings and clutch late-game execution, the Rhodes College softball team defeated Webster University by a score of 4–3. The Lynx built an early lead, weathered a Webster comeback, and delivered the decisive run in the sixth inning to remain undefeated on the season.
Key Performances
Leading the offensive effort was Emma Whittington, who delivered a standout performance at the plate with two RBI singles and aggressive baserunning, including a stolen base that helped manufacture an early run. Katie Bejian provided the game-winning moment with an RBI single in the sixth inning, scoring Harper Allee-Press to give Rhodes the decisive advantage. Talia Travis contributed offensively and on the bases, scoring twice and applying pressure throughout the game.
In the circle, Abby Froelich delivered a strong relief performance, pitching 2.2 shutout innings while allowing just one hit and striking out four to earn her second win of the season. Taylor Petty set the tone early with three hitless innings and five strikeouts, while Froelich's composure late secured the victory after Webster had tied the game.
Game Highlights
Rhodes struck first in the second inning when Whittington singled to center field, driving in Isabela Barber for the game's opening run. Whittington later stole second, allowing Travis to steal home and extend the Lynx lead to 2–0. Whittington added another RBI single in the third inning to give Rhodes a 3–0 advantage. Webster responded with three runs across the fourth and fifth innings to tie the game at 3–3. Bejian delivered the game-winning RBI single in the sixth inning, scoring Allee-Press and restoring the Lynx lead. Rhodes pitching shut down Webster in the final innings, preserving the one-run victory.
With the win, Rhodes improves to 4–0 on the season, showcasing resilience and depth in both pitching and offense. The Lynx continue to demonstrate their ability to execute in high-pressure situations as they build momentum early in the year.
Up Next: Rhodes vs Lyon College
With these results, Rhodes now turns its attention to Lyon, facing off on February 21, 2026, in Memphis, Tennessee. The matchup will be pivotal as the Lynx look to extend their undefeated start and carry their momentum into another strong non-conference test. Rhodes has demonstrated impressive depth both offensively and in the circle through its first three games, and the Lynx will aim to continue building consistency as they prepare for the heart of their early-season schedule.
