No. 1 Virginia Wesleyan softball team moves to 28-0 with dominant sweep

The Marlins won 15-1 and 13-0 against Meredith College on Wednesday in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:10pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a college softball game, with players' forms dissolving into bold, gestural brushstrokes.The Virginia Wesleyan softball team's unrelenting offensive and defensive dominance has fueled their undefeated start to the season.Today in Raleigh

The top-ranked Virginia Wesleyan softball team improved to 28-0 on the season with a dominant doubleheader sweep of Meredith College on Wednesday in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Marlins won the first game 15-1 and the second game 13-0, led by strong pitching performances and timely hitting.

Why it matters

Virginia Wesleyan's undefeated start to the season has them firmly atop the national rankings, and this sweep against a conference opponent keeps them on track for a potential deep postseason run. The Marlins' success reflects the strength of the program and the talent of their roster.

The details

In the first game, Hannah Hearl (13-0) and Savannah Ballou combined on a three-hitter, while Taylor Mcqueen and Karley Beltran drove in three runs apiece. In the second game, Emma Adams and Emma Orr combined on a two-hitter, and Brianna Jones hit a three-run homer for VWU.

  • The doubleheader sweep took place on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

The players

Hannah Hearl

The starting pitcher for Virginia Wesleyan in the first game, improving her record to 13-0 on the season.

Savannah Ballou

The relief pitcher who combined with Hearl on a three-hitter in the first game.

Taylor Mcqueen

A Virginia Wesleyan player who drove in three runs in the first game.

Karley Beltran

A Virginia Wesleyan player who also drove in three runs in the first game.

Emma Adams

One of the pitchers who combined on a two-hitter in the second game for Virginia Wesleyan.

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The takeaway

Virginia Wesleyan's dominant sweep of Meredith College keeps the Marlins undefeated at 28-0 on the season and solidifies their status as the top-ranked team in Division III softball. Their strong pitching and timely hitting have them poised for a deep postseason run as they continue their quest for a national championship.