LEXINGTON, KY – Transylvania University split an HCAC doubleheader with Bluffton on Sunday, dropping a 5-3 decision to Bluffton on Sunday afternoon's first matchup. 

Bluffton scored all five of its runs in the opening inning, capitalizing on early opportunities to take control of the game. Transylvania answered with three runs in the bottom half of the first but was unable to close the gap the rest of the way. Emilie Young led the Pioneers at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI. Kailey Goetz also recorded a multi-hit game, finishing 2-for-4 with two RBIs.

Transylvania collected six hits and drew seven walks but left 11 runners on base.

Raegan Gibson took the loss in the circle, allowing five runs (three earned) over four innings. Natalie Contreras provided three scoreless innings of relief, allowing just two hits.

The Pioneers would rally back in the second matchup of the series, defeating the Beavers 5-2.

The Pioneers opened the scoring in the second inning as Maddie Goddard delivered a two-run double to give Transylvania an early lead. Transylvania added three more runs in the fifth inning to extend its advantage to 5-0.

Bluffton plated two runs in the sixth inning, but the Pioneers limited further damage to secure the win.

Malana Hamm finished 1-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored, while Ella Steczynski went 2-for-3 with a run scored. Avery Parsons added a hit and a run, and Goddard drove in two runs to lead the offense.

In the circle, Goddard earned the win, allowing one run on two hits over 5.1 innings with two strikeouts. Natalie Contreras and Trinity Bridges combined to close out the game in relief.

The Pioneers celebrated the Class of 2026 prior to the start of game one, recognizing Natalie Contreras, Makena Francis and Raegan Gibson.

Transylvania University is a proud member of the NCAA Division III and the HCAC. To keep up to date with all of the Transylvania Athletics, check out our website at transysports.com and follow @TransySports on Instagram.