Howell, MI – Nearly two weeks had passed since the AQ Saints Softball team returned home, with weather conditions limiting them to practice while several games were canceled or rescheduled. That brought us to today—AQ hitting the road to take on Cleary in their first conference doubleheader of the season. Would Coach Brad Koch's squad shake off the rust?

Game 1: Aquinas 3, Cleary 2

The Aquinas Saints secured a gritty 3-2 victory over Cleary, demonstrating resilience and clutch performances throughout the contest. After a scoreless opening frame, the Saints broke through in the second, as Angelina Lanham delivered an RBI hit to put AQ on the board. Emma Houseman followed up with a crucial knock, setting the stage for another scoring opportunity. Though Cleary responded with two runs in the fifth, Aquinas remained composed, pushing across the game-winning run in the later innings to seal the win.

On the mound, Sophia Pavese was dominant, limiting Cleary to just two runs while displaying excellent command. She worked through multiple tight situations, striking out several batters and keeping the Cougars' offense in check. Defensively, Katie Carlson anchored the infield with eight putouts at first base, while Carson Hendrickson made key plays at shortstop to stifle Cleary's attack.

At the plate, Jaden Delchambre provided a spark, consistently reaching base and applying pressure on Cleary's pitching staff. Lanham and Delchambre each crossed the plate, while Houseman played a pivotal role in setting up scoring chances. Though runs were at a premium, the Saints capitalized on their opportunities, playing disciplined, situational softball to grind out the victory.

This hard-fought win showcased Aquinas' depth and ability to execute in pressure moments, setting a strong tone for game two.

Inside the Numbers (Game 1)

• Clutch at-bats: Angelina Lanham delivered a key RBI hit to open the scoring.
• Defensive anchor: Katie Carlson recorded eight putouts at first base, providing stability in the infield.
• Pitching prowess: Sophia Pavese held Cleary to just two runs while navigating multiple jams.
• Timely hitting: The Saints made the most of their five hits, converting limited chances into three crucial runs.

Game 2: Cleary 6, Aquinas 5

Looking to complete the conference-opening sweep, the Saints engaged in a tightly contested battle but fell just short, dropping a 6-5 decision at Lake Trust Stadium. AQ jumped out early, trading runs with Cleary throughout the game, but a late push by the Cougars proved to be the difference.

Angelina Lanham continued her strong day at the plate, going 2-for-4 and scoring twice, while Alea Fisher added a key RBI single in the later innings. Carson Hendrickson and Abby Nieswender also chipped in with RBIs, keeping the Saints in the fight.

On the mound, Ada Bradford got the start, effectively containing Cleary's lineup in the early innings before handing the ball to Raeann Drummond in relief. Despite a solid defensive effort, Cleary capitalized on timely opportunities, with DeJohn and Harden driving in pivotal runs. The Saints threatened in the final frame, but Cleary's bullpen held firm, closing the door on AQ's comeback bid.

With the split, Aquinas moves to 14-10 overall (1-1 WHAC) as they prepare for a busy weekend of doubleheaders.

Inside the Numbers (Game 2)

• Sparkplug performance: Angelina Lanham scored two of AQ's five runs, continuing her offensive impact.
• Balanced attack: The Saints racked up 10 hits, with four different players collecting RBIs.
• Key relief effort: Raeann Drummond worked effectively out of the bullpen, limiting Cleary in the later innings.
• Clean defense: Aquinas played error-free softball, while Cleary committed one defensive miscue.

Up Next

Aquinas will gear up for a weekend slate of doubleheaders at Cornerstone Softball Field. On Saturday, the Saints will face the Golden Eagles with Game 1 starting at 1:00 PM, followed by Game 2 approximately 30 minutes later. On Sunday, AQ will take on Rochester Christian, with game times mirroring Saturday's schedule.

Stay updated with recaps, stats, and all AQ sports coverage at aqsaints.com.