The Indiana Hoosiers unleashed a power-packed performance at the plate, slugging in four home runs en route to commanding a 14-1 run-rule victory over the Valparaiso Beacons on Wednesday night.
Indiana’s offense was relentless from the opening inning, piling up 14 runs on 14 hits and showcasing a blend of power, speed and timely hitting. The Hoosiers wasted no opportunities, consistently delivering with runners on base and forcing Valpo to cycle through four pitchers in an attempt to slow the momentum.
Leading the charge was Avery Parker, who delivered a dominant performance with two towering home runs and five RBIs. Parker’s ability to capitalize in key moments helped Indiana quickly separate and maintain control throughout the game.
She wasn’t alone in the long-ball display, as Josie Bird and Brooke Mannon each added a home run of their own, accounting for all four of Indiana’s blasts.
While the home runs headlined the performance, Indiana’s offense was far from one-dimensional. Alex Cooper was flawless at the plate, going 4-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs scored, including a pair of triples that kept constant pressure on the Beacon defense.
Aly VanBrandt contributed with two hits, including a double and a triple, scoring twice and driving in a run, while Cassidy Kettleman added two doubles and two RBIs to round out the extra-base hit parade.
In total, the Hoosiers tallied seven extra-base hits and drew four walks, keeping innings alive and forcing Valparaiso into difficult situations. The Beacons’ pitching staff allowed 14 earned runs across just four innings, struggling to contain Indiana’s aggressive approach.
“Fun to see us bang the fences,” Indiana head coach Shonda Stanton said. "(I) thought we settled in on the mound and made some great defensive plays.”
In the circle, Indiana matched its offensive dominance with a composed outing. Aubree Hooks earned the win with two scoreless innings, allowing no hits while efficiently working through the lineup. Ella Troutt and Mannon closed out the game, combining to limit Valparaiso to just three hits and one run over five innings.
“It starts in the bullpen," Aubree Hooks said. “I just try to focus on rolling ground balls and hitting my spots.”
Valparaiso’s lone highlight came from Mack Gallagher, who accounted for the Beacons’ only run with a solo home run. Outside that swing, the offense struggled to find a rhythm, finishing with just three hits and few scoring chances.
With the dominant win, Indiana showcased its offensive firepower and depth, using the long ball to set the tone and control the game from start to finish.
The Hoosiers will travel up to Ann Arbor, Michigan, for a three-game weekend series against the Michigan Wolverines, with the first game starting Friday at 6 p.m.
