Karlyn Pickens Secures First Professional Victory in AUSL Opener

In an impressive showcase, Carolina (2-0) triumphed over Portland (0-2) with a score of 11-2 on Wednesday at Smith Family Stadium in Durham, North Carolina. The matchup highlighted the talents of three former players from the University of Tennessee.

Karlyn Pickens shone in her debut for the Blaze, marking her first professional victory against the Cascade. She took to the mound as the starting pitcher and completed five innings, surrendering just two runs on five hits and one walk. Pickens struck out five batters while throwing a total of 81 pitches, with 53 of those being strikes. This performance comes on the heels of her being the top pick in the 2026 AUSL college draft held on May 4.

Pickens, who was a three-time All-American and twice named SEC Pitcher of the Year in 2024 and 2025, showcased her skills effectively in this outing. Aubrey Leach, who played for Tennessee from 2016 to 2019, also participated in the game, starting at second base before switching to center field. She went 0-for-3 at the plate but managed to draw a walk and score a run while batting leadoff for the Blaze.

In addition to Pickens and Leach, Payton Gotshall made her second appearance this season for the Cascade. In one inning of relief, she allowed three unearned runs, four hits, and three walks without recording a strikeout. Gotshall, who played for the Lady Vols from 2023-24 after transferring from Bowling Green, is also recognized as an All-American and All-SEC performer from her collegiate days.

This game not only marked a significant moment for Pickens but also highlighted the strong legacy of Tennessee softball in the professional arena.