FRANKLIN, Ind. (April 8, 2017) – The Franklin College softball team swept visiting Manchester on Saturday afternoon in the Heartland Collegiate Conference-opener for both teams.

Franklin won the first game, 10-1, in six innings, and took the second game, 8-3.

In Game 1, the Grizzlies scored three runs in the first inning and two in the second for a commanding lead they would never relinquish. In total, they collected nine hits in support of winning pitcher Olivia Paszek.

Paszek gave up only two hits and struck out eight batters to improve her record to 8-3.

First baseman Savannah Blevins, designated player Alexis Tarver and second baseman Shelby Mager each had three hits to power the Grizzlies' offense. Blevins was 2 for 4 at the plate, including a home run, and had a game-high four RBIs. Tarver was also 2 for 4 with a home run and had three RBIs.

In Game 2, Franklin got off to another quick start. The Grizzlies led 5-1 after three innings and were in control the rest of the way.

Pitcher Kayla Selzer (4-3) worked four innings and picked up the win. Bailey Lindamood pitched three innings in relief and earned the save.

At the plate, Franklin combined for 10 hits, led by Blevins and Mager. They had two hits apiece and combined for three runs. Mager had a team-high two RBIs.

With the wins, the Grizzlies improved to 15-7 overall and 2-0 in the HCAC. They return to action Sunday for a home doubleheader against IU-Southeast. Game times are 1 and 3 p.m.