No. 11 Warriors Split Pair on Sunday

Midland defeats Missouri Valley 4-1 before falling to No. 23 St. Xavier 4-1

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The No. 11-ranked Midland Warriors softball team split a pair of games on Sunday, defeating Missouri Valley College 4-1 before falling to No. 23-ranked St. Xavier University 4-1 at the St. Ambrose Dome in Davenport, Iowa.

Why it matters

The Warriors faced their first ranked opponent of the season in St. Xavier, providing an early test for the team as they look to build momentum heading into conference play.

The details

In the first game, the Warriors scored two runs in the first and third innings to provide early support for pitcher Chloe Wagner, who tossed a complete game allowing just one earned run. MaKenna Watkins, Alexis Shepherd, and Emma Hodnet led the offensive charge. In the second game, Midland fell behind early against St. Xavier and was unable to capitalize on a bases-loaded opportunity in the third inning, ultimately falling 4-1 despite a late rally.

  • The games were played on Sunday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Chloe Wagner

The Midland pitcher who tossed a complete game in the first contest, allowing just one earned run and striking out six.

MaKenna Watkins

The Midland leadoff hitter who sparked the offense in both games, reaching base and scoring runs.

Alexis Shepherd

The Midland player who drove in runs with a two-out double in the first game.

Emma Hodnet

The Midland player who delivered RBI singles in the first and third innings of the first game to extend the Warriors' lead.

Mackenzie Groninga

The Midland pitcher who took the loss in the second game, allowing three hits, three walks, and two earned runs in 1 2/3 innings.

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What’s next

Midland (5-3) will travel to Oklahoma next weekend for its first outdoor games of the spring at the NAIA SB Invite in Shawnee. The Warriors are scheduled to face No. 16 Missouri Baptist and (RV) Baker on Saturday, followed by Columbia and (RV) Friends on Sunday.

The takeaway

The Warriors showed their ability to win against a conference opponent in Missouri Valley, but faced a tough challenge against a ranked St. Xavier team, providing valuable experience as Midland looks to build momentum heading into the heart of their schedule.