Marianna Softball Ends Season 10-9 in District Action

By: Shelia Mader

Marianna’s varsity softball team closed the book on its 2025 season Tuesday night with a tough 10-9 loss to Florida State University High, as the Seminoles pushed across the winning run in the bottom of the seventh inning following a defensive miscue. The Bulldogs, who entered the year knowing it would be a rebuilding season, battled to the final out and showed steady growth throughout, finishing with a 7-18 record.

Marianna came out swinging early and stayed within striking distance all night, highlighted by a six-run fourth inning that briefly gave the Bulldogs control of the game. Murphy Mitchell led the way at the plate with a big night, driving in four runs and collecting two hits, while Hope Tanner added three hits and two RBIs. Mabry Mitchell reached base multiple times and scored twice, and Shauna McCardle also crossed the plate twice as the Bulldogs totaled nine hits and nine runs.

Despite the offensive production, Florida High capitalized on key opportunities late, erasing Marianna’s lead and taking advantage of an error in the final inning to bring home the deciding run.

One of the night’s biggest moments came from senior Murphy Mitchell, who etched her name in the Marianna High record books. Mitchell swiped her 44th base of the season, setting a new school record for stolen bases in a single year. The standout senior, who has signed with Chipola College, provided a consistent spark for the Bulldogs all season and closes her high school career as one of the program’s most dynamic players.

In the circle, Tanner and Mabry Mitchell split time, combining for five strikeouts while working through a Florida High lineup that produced 13 hits.

Congratulations to the Lady Bulldogs on their season from the publisher and staff of the Jackson County Times.