YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. – The University of South Carolina Aiken softball team picked up a 6-2 victory at Young Harris Saturday afternoon in the first game of the series.

The Pacers are now 17-10 on the season, including a 4-3 ledger in PBC play.

In the top of the third, Taylor Butts earned a walk. She promptly moved to second when Lauren Wexler groundout out. With two down, Mallory Shaver belted an 0-2 offering to center field, giving the Pacers a 1-0 edge. 

Head coach Jaclin Poole's team increased the margin to 3-0 in the fourth. With Shircoria Bosket on third after a single and two-base error, Butts launched her first career round-tripper over the left center field wall on a 2-1 pitch. 

Leading 3-1 in the top of the seventh, USC Aiken added to its margin. Wexler knocked an 0-1 offering into left field. With one away, Shaver drew a full-count walk. On the ensuing pitch, Emily Ayers rocketed the ball high over the right field wall for a 6-1 lead.

YHC scored a run in the bottom of the seventh for the final 6-2 score.

For the game, Wexler led the way with a pair of hits. Ayers registered a game-high three RBI while Butts had two. Butts led the way by scoring two runs. Ayers, Bosket, Shaver and Wexler all came home once apiece.

Payton Baker was outstanding in the circle, tossing a complete game. Baker struck out six batters and allowed just one walk. 

The Pacers return to action tomorrow for a doubleheader against Young Harris starting at 1 p.m. Live stats and video will be available at PacerSports.com.