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Wildwood Today
By the People, for the People
Carr Shines as Mizzou Softball Dominates Liberty, Outlasts BYU at NFCA Division I Leadoff Classic
Missouri softball bounces back with wins over ranked Liberty and BYU after going 0-2 on the first day of the tournament.
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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After going 0-2 on the first day of the NFCA Division I Leadoff Classic in Clearwater, Fla., Missouri softball bounced back in a major way on Day 2 with wins over No. 21/23 Liberty and NR/RV BYU. Powered by a dominant performance from freshman pitcher Abby Carr, MU run-ruled the Flames 13-2 in six innings. Carr also had a two-RBI double against BYU as Missouri held on for a 9-6 victory.
Why it matters
This early-season tournament provides an opportunity for Missouri softball to test itself against top competition and build momentum heading into conference play. The Tigers' ability to rebound after a tough start shows their resilience and potential to be a force in the SEC this season.
The details
Against Liberty, Carr took a no-hitter into the bottom of the sixth before it was broken up. She finished with five strikeouts and also drew a bases-loaded walk to score a run. Offensively, eight Missouri players recorded at least one hit, led by first baseman Abby Hay and right fielder Sidney Forrester. Hay hit a solo home run, while Forrester blew the game open with a bases-clearing double. In the BYU game, Hay and Carr continued their strong performances, with Hay hitting another solo home run and Carr driving in two runs with a double.
- The NFCA Division I Leadoff Classic took place from February 6-8, 2026 in Clearwater, Florida.
- Missouri went 0-2 on the first day of the tournament on February 6.
- Missouri bounced back with wins over Liberty and BYU on February 7.
The players
Abby Carr
A true freshman pitcher from Wildwood, Missouri who had a dominant performance in her first career collegiate start, taking a no-hitter into the sixth inning against Liberty and also driving in two runs with a double against BYU.
Abby Hay
Missouri's first baseman who hit a solo home run against both Liberty and BYU, continuing her strong start to the season.
Sidney Forrester
Missouri's right fielder who recorded four hits and six RBIs, including a bases-clearing double that blew open the game against Liberty.
Marissa McCann
The Missouri pitcher who came in relief against BYU and was able to close out the 9-6 win for the Tigers after the Cougars had cut the lead to two runs.
Rita Tavita
The BYU freshman who hit a three-run home run in the top of the sixth inning to cut Missouri's lead to 8-6, but the Tigers were able to hold on for the victory.
What’s next
Missouri will conclude its time at the NFCA Division I Leadoff Classic on Sunday, February 9th when they face South Alabama at 12:00 PM CT.
The takeaway
Missouri softball's ability to bounce back from a tough start to the tournament and defeat ranked opponents like Liberty and BYU demonstrates the team's resilience and potential to be a contender in the SEC this season. The strong performances from young players like Abby Carr and Abby Hay are especially encouraging for the Tigers' future.