Kentucky softball couldn't have asked for a better start to its home slate. The Wildcats dominated the John Cropp Classic this weekend, sweeping all five games to improve their record to 17-4 and extend their current winning streak to 11 games.
Sunday finale: Kentucky 8, Murray State 0
The weekend finale against Murray State was over almost before it began. Sarah Haendiges was surgical in the circle, tossing a complete-game two-hitter while striking out five Racers. She moved to 6-1 on the season with the victory, needing only 77 pitches to navigate six innings. and picked up her second win of the weekend.
The offense provided immediate support, led by a flurry of home runs. Peyton Plotts launched her ninth of the season, while Carly Sleeman and Maddy Anson also went deep to fuel an 8-run, 9-hit explosion. Anson was particularly effective, going 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a stolen base.
John Cropp Classic weekend recap
Kentucky’s dominance wasn't limited to Sunday. The Cats swept back-to-back doubleheaders on Friday and Saturday, showcasing both elite pitching and run-rule power:
- Friday: W 10-2 vs. Michigan State (6 inn.) | W 5-1 vs. Dayton
- Saturday: W 6-1 vs. Michigan State | W 9-0 vs. Dayton (6 inn.)
- Sunday: W 8-0 vs. Murray State (6 inn.)
Freshman phenom Hailey Nutter continued her record-breaking start to the season, picking up another complete game over the weekend, holding Dayton to just 3 hits. Between Nutter and Haendiges, the Kentucky rotation has allowed just four runs over its last 33 innings of work.
Looking ahead
The Wildcats (17-4) will look to keep the momentum rolling as they remain at home for a mid-week matchup. Kentucky returns to action on Tuesday evening at John Cropp Stadium against IU Indy. Tickets are available here, and the game will be carried on the SEC Network+ through the ESPN app.