Karlyn Pickens achieves first AUSL win in Carolina Blaze debut

Karlyn Pickens made her professional debut for the Carolina Blaze on June 10, 2026, earning her first win in an 11-2 game against the Portland Cascade at Smith Family Stadium in Durham, North Carolina. Pickens pitched a complete game, allowing two runs and striking out five in five innings. The game featured three former Tennessee softball players, including Pickens, who was the top pick in the 2026 AUSL college draft. Aubrey Leach and Payton Gotshall also participated, with Leach recording a run and Gotshall allowing three unearned runs in one inning of relief.

• 2:49 AMYahoo Sports — Karlyn Pickens earns first professional win in AUSL debut