John Glenn Muskies secure Division IV regional final berth with dominant shutout
A seven-run third inning and a 12-hit offensive surge propel John Glenn past Gallia Academy 10-0, setting up a Saturday showdown with Licking Valley.
The John Glenn Muskies have advanced to the Division IV regional championship after dismantling Gallia Academy 10-0 in six innings during the regional semifinal on Thursday, May 28. The victory, secured at the Philo High Athletic Complex in Duncan Falls, propels the Muskies (26-5) into the Elite 8, where they will face Licking Valley in the title game on Saturday, May 30.
The outcome was largely dictated by a masterful pitching performance from sophomore Kendall Snider, who recorded her third consecutive shutout in OHSAA postseason play. Snider limited the Blue Devils (12-11) to just two hits over six innings while striking out 14 batters. The performance further solidifies her statistical dominance for the season, improving her record to 18-3 with an ERA of 0.61 and 325 strikeouts across 149 innings.
While Snider provided the defensive anchor, John Glenn’s offense delivered the decisive blow in the third inning. After holding a narrow 2-0 lead through two innings, the Muskies erupted for seven runs, capitalising on a 12-hit offensive attack. Head coach Kyle Porter described the win as an "all hands on deck" effort, crediting the team’s ability to string hits together and support their pitcher with strong defensive plays.
Key contributors to the offensive surge included Libby Brown, who recorded three singles and an RBI, and Cora Dever, who drove in two runs with two singles. Estelle Matheney added a triple and a single for an RBI, while Addi Babcock and Kenli Porter each hit triples and doubles respectively. Josilyn Stashonsky also contributed with a double and a single, ensuring the Muskies maintained pressure throughout the game.
Snider noted that the offensive cushion allowed her to pitch with increased confidence, particularly after the pivotal third inning. The Muskies will now look to carry this momentum into the regional final, where they will meet Licking Valley, who advanced to the championship after a 14-0 victory over Harrison Central in the other semifinal. The title game is scheduled for noon on May 30 at the same venue.
