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Central Michigan University Softball Secures Victory Against Detroit Mercy

Central Michigan University softball team competing against Detroit Mercy at Margo Jonker Stadium.

News Summary

The Central Michigan University softball team achieved a convincing 11-3 victory against Detroit Mercy on April 30, 2025. Key players like Maddison Diekman, Grace Koenig, and Emma Lotus each contributed significantly, scoring two runs. Notably, opposing pitcher Madie Jamrog showcased a remarkable performance with a no-hitter into the sixth inning. Carly Sleeman hit a home run, tying the record for most in a single season at CMU. The team now looks forward to a crucial series against Ball State as they continue their campaign in the MAC tournament.

Mount Pleasant, MI – The Central Michigan University softball team secured a decisive victory against Detroit Mercy, defeating them 11-3 on April 30, 2025, at Margo Jonker Stadium. This win adds momentum as the team prepares for an upcoming triple series against Ball State, starting on May 3, 2025.

In the recent game against Detroit Mercy, multiple players made significant contributions to the victory. Freshman utility player Maddison Diekman, sophomore infielder Grace Koenig, and sophomore outfielder Emma Lotus each scored two runs. This strong offensive performance underscored the team’s collective effort and strategy.

However, the game was notable not just for the scoring but also for a remarkable individual performance by opposing pitcher Madie Jamrog, an Akron athlete and Hamilton graduate, who pitched a no-hitter into the sixth inning. Jamrog struck out seven batters and allowed only one hit, which came from a home run by Carly Sleeman. This home run marked Sleeman’s 17th of the season and tied her for the single-season record at Central Michigan University.

Sleeman’s impressive performance throughout the season has been a highlight for the Chippewas. She concluded the regular season with an outstanding .390 batting average, ranking 15th in the conference. Over 25 games in Mid-American Conference play, she recorded 30 hits, with four doubles, nine home runs, and 27 RBI. Her notable achievements include setting a program record for 48 RBIs in the 2025 season and successfully throwing out four runners attempting to steal bases.

In a broader context, the team’s overall performance this season has established them as a strong contender in the Mid-American Conference (MAC). Currently, they hold the #3 seed entering the 2025 MAC Tournament, where they are scheduled to face #6 Northern Illinois University (NIU) on Wednesday afternoon. This positioning demonstrates the team’s strategic prowess and development over the course of the season.

Additionally, Jamrog’s performance this season earned her a place on the MAC All-Freshman Team, showcasing her potential for future contributions as she navigates her early career in collegiate softball. In her debut year, she made 25 appearances, including 17 starts, accumulating a 2.96 ERA and achieving 61 strikeouts over a total of 111.1 innings pitched.

Coach Craig Nicholson of Akron reached a career milestone during this matchup, earning his 1,300th career win, further emphasizing the competitive nature of the game and showcasing the high level of talent present in collegiate softball.

The upcoming series against Ball State will be crucial for the Chippewas as they aim to solidify their standing and push for success in the MAC tournament. This latest victory against Detroit Mercy serves as both a testament to their skill and a precursor to potential achievements in the upcoming matches.

Fans and supporters are encouraged to stay updated as Central Michigan continues their campaign in the MAC and aims for a strong finish as the season progresses.