Tri-City Tornadoes Defeat Athens Warriors 3-2 in Nail-Biter

Maebri Bender's sixth-inning homer lifts Tornadoes to 6-0 season start

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:17am

A cubist-style painting featuring sharp, angular shapes in shades of blue, green, and orange, capturing the energy and movement of a softball game in an abstract, deconstructed manner.A dynamic, fragmented visual interpretation of the nail-biting softball matchup between the Tri-City Tornadoes and Athens Warriors.Mason Today

The Tri-City Tornadoes edged out the Athens Warriors 3-2 in a close game, with Maebri Bender hitting a crucial three-run homer in the top of the sixth inning to give the Tornadoes the lead. Tiffany Farley had two hits for Tri-City, while Reilen Reynolds and Preslie Buckmaster drove in runs for Athens.

Why it matters

This victory keeps the undefeated Tri-City Tornadoes at the top of their league, continuing their strong start to the season. The close game also highlights the competitiveness between these two local rivals.

The details

Tri-City's Maebri Bender hit the game-winning three-run homer in the sixth inning, her only hit of the game. Tiffany Farley also had two hits for the Tornadoes. For Athens, Reilen Reynolds and Preslie Buckmaster each drove in a run for the Warriors.

  • The game was played on March 30, 2026.
  • Tri-City's record now stands at 6-0 for the season.

The players

Maebri Bender

A player for the Tri-City Tornadoes who hit the game-winning three-run homer.

Tiffany Farley

A player for the Tri-City Tornadoes who had two hits in the game.

Reilen Reynolds

A player for the Athens Warriors who drove in a run for their team.

Preslie Buckmaster

A player for the Athens Warriors who drove in a run for their team.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a tough game against Athens, but the team really came together in that sixth inning to get the win.”

— Maebri Bender, Tri-City Tornadoes Player

What’s next

Tri-City will travel to Heyworth on Thursday, while Athens will host Delavan on Tuesday.

The takeaway

The Tri-City Tornadoes continue their undefeated start to the season with a close victory over local rival Athens, showcasing the competitiveness of the league and the importance of timely hitting.