Cedar Rapids, Iowa — No. 2 CMU staged a dramatic seventh-inning comeback Sunday afternoon to defeat top-seeded Missouri Baptist, 7-5, and claim the Heart of America Athletic Conference Tournament Championship
Trailing 5-2 entering the final frame, the Eagles (38-15) delivered a stunning five-run outburst to secure their fourth conference tournament title in the last five seasons.
After Missouri Baptist (40-12) carried a three-run advantage into the seventh, Central quickly mounted its rally. With two runners on, Elizabeth Palumbo delivered the defining moment, launching a three-run home run to center field to tie the game at 5-5.
Moments later, Heart Freshman of the Year Emma King completed the comeback in emphatic fashion, blasting a two-run homer to right field to give the Eagles their first lead since the opening inning.
CMU struck first in the top of the first when Maddie Holly tripled down the left field line to score Kaysie Jolley for a 1-0 lead. Missouri Baptist answered with a solo home run in the third before erupting for three runs in the fourth inning to take a 4-1 advantage. The Spartans added another run in the fifth to extend the lead to 5-2.
The Eagles chipped away in the fifth inning as Jolley drove in a run on a groundout, but it was the explosive seventh inning that ultimately decided the contest.
Offensively, Central totaled 11 hits, highlighted by multi-hit performances from Joely Crider (three-for-four) and Kinlei Boley (two-for-four). Holly also contributed two hits and an RBI, while King finished with two hits and two RBI.
In the circle, Boley earned the win in relief, tossing 3.2 innings while allowing just one unearned run. Starter Karlie Barnum went the first 3.1 innings, surrendering four runs, with three being earned.
MBU also recorded 11 hits, led by a 4-for-4 performance from Makayla Johnson, who homered and drove in a run.
With the victory, Central continues its run of dominance in the conference tournament, securing its fourth title in five seasons and earning the Heart's automatic bid to the NAIA National Championship.
Central will look towards nationals, hosting the Opening Round of the national tournament beginning Monday, May 11th at Reardon Family Field. More information on the seedings and schedule will be announced at a later date.
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