Cumberland Breaks Game Open Late to Top Bethel in Season Finale

COLUMBIA, Ky. – In what proved to be the final matchup of the 2026 season, the Bethel University Lady Wildcats fell 6-2 to Cumberland University on Wednesday evening at Sparks Park in Columbia.

 While the Wildcats out-hit the Phoenix for much of the game, a five-run outburst in the bottom of the sixth inning by CU proved to be the difference in the elimination game of the MSC Tournament.

Game Summary

The contest began as a defensive struggle and a showcase for Bethel starter Kinsley Caruthers, who held the Phoenix to just one run over three innings of work.

Kalani Hernandez and Chanley Price each delivered RBI doubles in the top of the seventh to spark a late rally, but it would not be enough to extend the season. Cumberland had exploded for five runs in the bottom of the sixth, highlighted by a Grand Slam off the bat of Hailey Donato. The Phoenix combined for seven hits off Bethel's relief pitching in that stretch.

Key Stats

• Bethel Hits: Kalani Hernandez (2-for-4, 2B, RBI), Kinsley Nichols (2-for-4).
• Bethel Pitching: Kinsley Caruthers (3.0 IP, 1 ER, 3 BB).
• Cumberland Hero: Hailey Donato (1-for-4, HR, 4 RBI).
• Cumberland Pitching: Avery Rauscher (Complete game with seven K's)  

Coach's Corner

Reflecting on the conclusion of his first season at the helm, Bethel Head Coach Craig Massey looked toward the future despite the tough finish.

"I'm proud of the way our girls fought today; taking the game into the late innings against a tough Cumberland team shows the growth we've had this spring," said Coach Massey. "This first year has been about laying a foundation and learning how to compete in every single inning. We didn't get the result we wanted today, but we've identified the core of what we want Bethel softball to be. We'll take these lessons into the offseason and come back hungrier."

The Wildcats concluded their season with a 12-33 overall record (3-15 in conference play).