Rochester Pitcher Tosses Opening Day No-Hitter

Jaelyn Watts strikes out 16 in 5-0 win over Pleasant Plains

Mar. 20, 2026 at 6:23am

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Jaelyn Watts, a pitcher for the Rochester Rockets, threw a no-hitter in the team's season opener against Pleasant Plains, striking out 16 batters in a 5-0 victory. Brooklyn Thompson hit a solo home run and Molly Eichholz hit a two-run double to provide the offensive support.

Why it matters

Opening day no-hitters are rare feats in high school baseball, showcasing Watts' dominant pitching performance to start the season. Rochester and Pleasant Plains are both competitive teams in their local conference, making this an important early-season matchup.

The details

Watts was in complete control throughout the game, not allowing a single hit from the Pleasant Plains lineup. She complemented her overpowering stuff by striking out 16 batters. Offensively, Thompson and Eichholz provided the key hits to give Rochester a comfortable lead.

  • The game took place on March 19, 2026, Rochester's season opener.
  • Rochester has a doubleheader scheduled against Normal Community on Saturday.

The players

Jaelyn Watts

The starting pitcher for the Rochester Rockets who threw a no-hitter in the season opener.

Brooklyn Thompson

A Rochester player who hit a solo home run in the game.

Molly Eichholz

A Rochester player who hit a two-run double in the game.

Pleasant Plains

The opposing team that was held hitless by Watts.

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What they’re saying

“Jaelyn was absolutely dominant out there today. Her stuff was electric and she really set the tone for us to get this win.”

— Coach Samantha Roberts, Rochester Rockets Head Coach

What’s next

Rochester has a doubleheader scheduled against Normal Community on Saturday, March 22nd, while Pleasant Plains will face Carlinville on Monday, March 24th.

The takeaway

Jaelyn Watts' no-hitter on opening day is an impressive feat that showcases her talent and the Rockets' potential for a strong season. This early-season matchup between two competitive teams sets the stage for an exciting high school baseball campaign.