Columbus, Ga. - The Central Methodist Softball program opened the 2023 NAIA World Series with a 2-0 walkoff victory over familiar foe, Baker University, Wednesday afternoon at the South Commons Softball Complex in Columbus, Ga. 

Central improves its overall record to 42-10 and earns its first World Series victory since 2015. 

It was a pitcher's duel from start to finish, featuring a pair of freshman aces in Central's Jordyn Ball and the Wildcats' Kira Baker. Both hurlers combined for 17 strikeout and just two runs given up, both being unearned. 

It was a scoreless game through seven complete innings, and the game would have to be decided in extras. 

With one out in the bottom of the eighth inning, junior outfielder Kelena Oots reached first on a fielding error from the Wildcats' shortstop. Baker managed to retire one more Eagle batter, before 2022 NAIA First Team All-American Madison White came to the plate. 

White would homer to left center field for the walkoff victory to send CMU on to the next round. White picked up three of Central's four hits.

Ball tossed a complete game shutout, giving up just one hit through eight innings while striking out 11. She now improves her overall record to 19-3 overall. 

Central advances in the winner's bracket and will face No. 1 seeded Oregon Tech Friday, May 26 at 3:00 p.m. (CST). 

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