WINCHESTER, Tenn. — The 2026 softball season could not have started much better for the Franklin County Rebelettes.
Behind an explosive offensive performance and dominant pitching, Franklin County rolled past Cannon County 22-1 Monday evening at home to open the year 1-0.
From the first inning, it was clear the Rebelettes were ready.
Franklin County erupted for eight runs in the bottom of the first. Freshman Leah Hardison got things going with a two-run triple, while junior Bella Smith added a two-run triple of her own. Senior Mollye Casey delivered a two-run single, Kaitlyn Montgomery recorded an RBI single, and Hardison later scored on an error to cap the frame.
The offensive pressure never let up.
The Rebelettes added three more runs in the second inning, capitalizing on a Cannon County error, a sacrifice fly from Montgomery, and continued aggressive baserunning. In the third, Franklin County plated five more runs behind an RBI single from Addilyn Carter, an RBI double from Dalayna Marshall, and a two-run double from Alex Hand.
By the time the fourth inning arrived, the outcome was all but decided. Franklin County pushed six more runs across the plate, taking advantage of walks, wild pitches, and timely hitting. The mercy rule was triggered after Cannon County managed a lone run in the fifth.
Franklin County finished with 13 hits, eight walks, and eight stolen bases while committing zero errors defensively. Hand led the defensive effort with nine plays.
In the circle, Smith set the tone with two scoreless innings, striking out three while allowing just one hit. Sophomore Victoria Nelson followed with three strong innings in relief, striking out six and allowing just one run.
The win marks a strong start for head coach and Co-Athletic Director Kelly Kennedy. Kennedy has acknowledged that this group may still be about a year away from being truly elite, but Monday’s opener showed the depth of young talent already emerging.
With seniors Montgomery and Casey providing leadership and a strong freshman class making an immediate impact, the foundation is clearly being laid.
Franklin County travels to Battle Creek on Wednesday for its next test as the Rebelettes look to build momentum early in the season.
