Lockman's Homer Powers Patriots to 6-3 Victory Over Keystone

LA PLUME, PA – April 15, 2026 – Clarissa Lockman blasted a three-run home run in the first inning, and pitcher Harley Wakeman went the distance as the University of Valley Forge softball team defeated Keystone 6-3 to earn their second conference victory of the season.

Wakeman (5-10) was outstanding in the circle, scattering 10 hits over seven complete innings while striking out a batter and allowing just three runs. The right-hander threw 106 pitches in front of 83 fans, working out of multiple jams to keep the Patriots in control throughout the contest.

The Patriots wasted no time taking control, scoring four runs in the top of the first inning to set the tone. After Melina Ragotzy walked and stole second, and Marissa Urner drew a walk, Arianna Harris delivered an RBI single to give Valley Forge a 1-0 lead.

Then Lockman stepped to the plate and launched a towering three-run home run to left center field, her first of the season, giving the Patriots a commanding 4-0 advantage before Keystone even came to bat.

Valley Forge added a fifth run in the second inning when Hannah Rodriguez walked, advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt by Joanie Wood, and scored on Wakeman's RBI single to make it 5-0.

Wakeman, Lockman, Wood, Lyla Smith, and Abigail Wood each contributed a hit, while Rodriguez added a walk and a run scored.

Keystone (4-15) was led by Isabella Benitez, who went 3-for-4 with four stolen bases. Briana Aponte added two hits and two stolen bases, while Aimee Lyons, Amaia Smith, and Jordan Chabreck each drove in a run. The Giants scored single runs in the third, fourth, and fifth innings but couldn't overcome the early deficit.

The victory marked Valley Forge's second conference win of the season and showcased the team's ability to jump on opponents early and maintain leads. The Patriots' combination of timely hitting, smart baserunning, and Wakeman's complete game effort proved to be the winning formula on the road.

Game Notes:

• Clarissa Lockman hits first career home run (3-run shot)
• Second conference victory of the season
• Melina Ragotzy reaches base 4 times (1 BB, 3 HBP), scores 2 runs, steals 2 bases
• Marissa Urner reaches base 4 times (3 BB, 1 HBP), scores run, steals 2 bases
• Arianna Harris goes 2-for-4 with double, RBI, stolen base
• Patriots score 4 runs in first inning

Box Score Summary:

• Valley Forge: 6 runs, 7 hits, 1 error
• Keystone: 3 runs, 10 hits, 1 error