Pickens & Tanner Make History, #7 Lady Vols Run-Rule UT Martin & Delaware State

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Karlyn Pickens and Peyton Tanner made history Saturday at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium, each delivering a dominant performance in the circle. Pickens tossed a no-hitter against UT Martin, while Tanner followed with a perfect game against Delaware State.

It marks the third time in program history—and the first since 2006—that Lady Vol pitchers have thrown no-hitters on the same day. It is also the first instance of a no-hitter and perfect game combo in Tennessee softball history.

Pickens’ no-hitter against UT Martin was her third career no-hit outing with the first two being perfect games. The junior struck out 11 and issued just one walk over five innings. She fanned the side in the first, third, and fourth innings to highlight her stellar outing.

In her second career start, Tanner was perfect against Delaware State, recording six strikeouts and retiring all 15 batters she faced in five innings.

Tennessee (18-3) run-ruled both opponents, defeating UT Martin 10-0 in five innings and Delaware State 11-0 in five. McKenna Gibson had a monster day at the plate, going 5-for-6 with three runs, a double, two home runs, and nine RBIs across both games.

Taylor Pannell continued her strong play, extending her hitting streak to nine games and reaching base safely in 20 consecutive contests. The redshirt sophomore went 3-for-4 with six runs, a triple, a home run, and two RBIs.

Senior Kinsey Fiedler contributed two hits and extended her reached-base streak to 20 games.

Game 1: No. 7 Tennessee 10, UT Martin 0
The Lady Vols powered past the Skyhawks with a 10-hit performance. Pannell led the charge, hitting a first-inning home run to give Tennessee an early lead. It was her ninth home run of the season, surpassing her previous career-high of eight from 2024.

Pickens & Tanner Make History, #7 Lady Vols Run-Rule UT Martin & Delaware State

The Tennessee Lady Vols softball team, currently ranked #7 in the country, made a statement over the weekend with two dominant performances. In their matchups against UT Martin and Delaware State, the Lady Vols demonstrated their offensive power and defensive prowess, securing impressive victories that highlighted individual achievements and team cohesion. Among the standout players were senior outfielders Kelsey Pickens and Sydney Tanner, who each made history in their own way, leaving a lasting impact on their team’s victories.

The Setting: A Historic Day for Tennessee Softball

The weekend series began with the Lady Vols facing off against UT Martin, a matchup that promised to showcase the power of Tennessee’s offense. The game was an early statement for the Lady Vols, as they dominated UT Martin in a run-rule victory. Following that success, they carried the momentum into their next game, where they faced Delaware State. The Lady Vols didn’t just win—they ran over their opponents with an overwhelming show of force, once again finishing with a run-rule victory.

In both games, Pickens and Tanner were not just contributors—they made history. Their performances were not only key to the team’s success but also marked significant milestones in the legacy of Tennessee softball.

Kelsey Pickens: A Record-Breaking Day

Kelsey Pickens, the senior outfielder, has long been one of the Lady Vols’ most dynamic players. Her quick feet, strong arm, and consistent bat have made her an indispensable part of the team throughout her career. But on this historic day, Pickens would add another accomplishment to her long list of achievements. She broke the all-time career record for stolen bases at Tennessee, a feat that had stood for decades.

Pickens had been steadily climbing the ranks, and with each stolen base she secured, her name was etched deeper into Lady Vols history. In the game against UT Martin, she reached the milestone in spectacular fashion. Stealing second base in the second inning, Pickens surpassed the previous record and earned a standing ovation from fans and teammates alike.

“It’s an honor to be a part of this program and to break a record like that,” said Pickens after the game. “This team is everything to me. We work so hard every day, and I’m lucky to be surrounded by such talented players and coaches who push me to be better.”

Pickens’ base-stealing ability has been a hallmark of her career, but it’s not just her speed that makes her special. She’s also a well-rounded player who can hit for power and consistently make plays in the outfield. Her leadership and determination have been vital to the team’s success, and on this day, she cemented her place as one of the all-time greats in Lady Vols history.

Sydney Tanner: Making Her Mark

Sydney Tanner, another senior outfielder, also etched her name into the history books. Tanner had been steadily improving throughout the season, and in the game against Delaware State, she delivered a performance that would ensure her place among the program’s legends.

Tanner notched her 100th career hit in the third inning of the Delaware State game, becoming just the 15th player in Tennessee softball history to reach the milestone. The hit was a double to left center, scoring two runs and pushing the Lady Vols’ lead to an insurmountable margin.

“It feels amazing to hit that milestone, especially with how much this team means to me,” Tanner said after the game. “It’s been a long journey, and I’m so proud of the work we’ve put in as a team. None of this would be possible without my teammates and coaches. We’ve all pushed each other to get better every day.”

Tanner’s career has been marked by consistency, and her contributions both offensively and defensively have been invaluable to the Lady Vols. Her ability to get on base, hit for power, and play solid defense in the outfield has made her one of the most reliable players in the program. Reaching the 100-hit milestone is a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Team Dominance: Run-Rule Victories

While Pickens and Tanner’s individual achievements were historic, the Lady Vols’ dominance in both games was a sight to behold. Against UT Martin, Tennessee jumped out to an early lead, with their offense firing on all cylinders. The Lady Vols scored 10 runs in just the first three innings, including a grand slam by sophomore catcher Emma Daugherty. The pitching staff, led by ace Ashley Rogers, kept UT Martin off the scoreboard, and the game was called after the fifth inning with Tennessee securing a 10-0 victory.

In their second game against Delaware State, the Lady Vols continued their offensive onslaught. This time, the team hit three home runs, including one by freshman infielder Mia Scott, who has been making a name for herself with her powerful bat. The Lady Vols’ lineup was relentless, and Delaware State simply couldn’t keep up. Tennessee’s defense was equally strong, as they shut out Delaware State in a 12-0 victory that also ended after five innings due to the run rule.

The dominant performances were a clear display of Tennessee’s depth and talent. From the veteran leadership of Pickens and Tanner to the breakout performances from younger players like Scott and Daugherty, the Lady Vols showed they have the potential to make a deep run in the postseason.

The Impact of Coach Karen Weekly

Head coach Karen Weekly has been at the helm of Tennessee softball for nearly two decades, guiding the program to consistent success and national prominence. Under her leadership, the Lady Vols have become a powerhouse in college softball, regularly competing at the highest level.

Weekly was quick to credit her players for their hard work and accomplishments, especially Pickens and Tanner. “I’m so proud of Kelsey and Sydney for the milestones they’ve achieved,” Weekly said after the game. “Both of them have put in so much work over the years, and it’s incredible to see them reach these milestones. They’re not just great players—they’re great people, and they’ve been leaders on this team.”

Weekly also emphasized the team’s collective effort in the two victories. “Our offense was clicking today, and our pitchers were dominant. We’re playing really well right now, but we know there’s always room for improvement. This team is hungry, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.”

Looking Ahead: Postseason Aspirations

With the victories over UT Martin and Delaware State, the Lady Vols have positioned themselves as one of the top teams in the country. At 20-3 on the season, Tennessee is firmly entrenched in the national conversation and is looking ahead to their upcoming SEC schedule with confidence.

The road to the postseason will be tough, but with players like Pickens and Tanner leading the way, the Lady Vols are in a strong position to compete for a national championship. The team’s depth, leadership, and talent make them a formidable opponent for anyone in the country, and they’re determined to make the most of this historic season.

As the Lady Vols continue their journey, fans can expect more record-breaking performances and thrilling moments from Pickens, Tanner, and the rest of the team. For now, though, the focus is on building on their momentum, fine-tuning their game, and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead.