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Hastings Today
By the People, for the People
Warriors Split Saturday Doubleheader at Hastings
No. 22-ranked Midland University earned a split in GPAC play against Hastings College.
Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:46pm
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The Midland University softball team split a Saturday doubleheader against Hastings College, falling 8-7 in Game 1 before rebounding with a 3-1 victory in Game 2. In the opener, the Warriors rallied late but came up short, while in the nightcap, Mackenzie Groninga tossed a complete game with 9 strikeouts to lead Midland to the split.
Why it matters
This was an important GPAC conference matchup for the nationally-ranked Warriors, who are looking to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season. The split keeps Midland in the hunt for a top spot in the conference standings.
The details
In Game 1, Midland jumped out to an early 1-0 lead but Hastings responded with six unanswered runs, including a three-run home run, to take a 7-1 advantage. The Warriors chipped away, scoring three runs in the 4th and three more in the 6th to tie the game at 7-7, but Hastings plated the winning run in the bottom of the 6th. In Game 2, it was a pitcher's duel until the 6th inning when MaKenna Watkins hit a two-run homer and Isabelle Pagan added a solo shot to give Midland a 3-0 lead. Hastings scored one run in the 7th but Groninga closed out the complete game victory.
- The doubleheader took place on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
- Game 1 was played first, with Hastings winning 8-7.
- Game 2 followed, with Midland earning a 3-1 victory.
The players
Midland University
The No. 22-ranked softball team competing in the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC).
Hastings College
The Midland University softball team's conference opponent in this doubleheader matchup.
MaKenna Watkins
A Midland University player who hit a two-run home run in the 6th inning of Game 2.
Isabelle Pagan
A Midland University player who had multiple RBIs across both games of the doubleheader.
Mackenzie Groninga
The Midland University pitcher who tossed a complete game with 9 strikeouts in the 3-1 win in Game 2.
What’s next
Midland (23-10, 6-2 GPAC) returns to action Monday with a road doubleheader at Mount Marty (11-17, 2-6 GPAC). First pitch is set for 3 p.m. in Yankton, South Dakota.
The takeaway
The Warriors showed resilience in battling back from a big deficit in Game 1, but ultimately came up short. However, their strong pitching performance and timely hitting in Game 2 earned them a crucial conference split on the road against a tough Hastings squad.
