Virginia Tech Softball Concludes Strong Weekend With Run-Rule Drubbing Of Radford

No. 21 Virginia Tech softball concluded its third non-conference tournament on Sunday with a 13-1 win over Radford.

The Hokies’ (12-3-1) offense exploded from the start, knocking their four home runs across three different innings. Their first two homers came in the first when Cameron Fagan hit one to right center and Michelle Chatfield hit one to left field.

Right fielder Cori McMillan scored three of Tech’s runs, tacking on a hit and a walk against the Highlanders (7-5). In two games against Radford, her former team, McMillan has three hits and five runs — including her two homers in an 8-0 victory on Friday.

Freshman catcher Zoe Yaeger hit her first two collegiate home runs on Sunday while adding an RBI single in the third.

Virginia Tech head coach Pete D’Amour has thrust freshmen into significant roles early in the season, whether by choice or circumstance. Yaeger has split time behind the dish with veteran catcher Kylie Aldridge, splitting up time at a taxing position. Emma Mazzarone pitched significant innings in Tech’s two recent games against No. 3 Georgia while also seeing time at designated player. 

Shortstop Annika Rohs, who played in recent games after starter Rachel Castine sustained a wrist injury, did not play on Sunday. Instead, D’Amour opted to start sophomore Teagan Thrunk, who hit an RBI double in the third inning.

Sophomore Lyndsey Grein allowed one run and two hits — while striking out 10 — in five innings.

Radford split time in the circle between three pitchers, although none pitched more than 1 ⅔ innings. Malorie Reeves pitched the first 1 ⅓, allowing five runs and four hits. Morgan Cooper came in relief, allowing Tech’s next six runs and seven hits. Ellen Payla threw the last frame, allowing two more runs.

With no midweek game approaching, Virginia Tech will turn its attention to the upcoming ACC schedule. The Hokies will play three games against Notre Dame at Tech Softball Park starting on Friday at 6 p.m. ET.

Box Score: No. 21 Virginia Tech 13, Radford 1