Completed Event: Softball at #10 Arkansas on May 23, 2026 , Loss , 2, to, 10 , (F/5)
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Final
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at #10 Arkansas
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Duke Softball Welcomes Transfer Additions Bayle Hunnicutt and Lilly Vallimont
6/20/2026 10:16:00 AM | Softball
DURHAM, N.C. – Duke softball head coach Marissa Young announced the addition of transfers Bayle Hunnicutt and Lilly Vallimont to the Blue Devils' roster for the 2027 season.
"We are thrilled to welcome Bayle and Lilly to the Duke softball family," said Young. "Both student-athletes bring talent, experience and a competitive spirit that will make an immediate impact on our program."
Hunnicutt joins the Blue Devils following a strong freshman campaign at Eastern Kentucky. In her debut season with the Colonels, Hunnicutt appeared in 36 games, earning 23 starts, and finished with an 8-8 ledger in the circle. She posted a 3.78 ERA and held opponents to a .241 batting average across 120.1 innings. She ranked third in the ASUN with 111 strikeouts, leading all rookies in the conference and capped off the year with All-ASUN Freshman Team honors. Hunnicutt is eager to continue developing her skills while competing at the highest level of collegiate softball.
"Bayle had a strong freshman season and possesses tremendous potential," Young added. "She is driven to grow her game and we are excited to help her continue that development here at Duke. Her work ethic, athleticism and competitive nature make her a great fit for our program."
Vallimont arrives in Durham following a four-year career at Michigan. After redshirting her freshman season, Vallimont started 173-of-174 career games behind the plate for the Wolverines. The Trenton, Michigan, native put together one of her strongest seasons in 2026, reaching career highs in hits, triples, home runs and RBI while helping guide Michigan to a 36-22 overall record and reach the NCAA Norman Regional championship game. Her veteran presence will provide valuable leadership to Duke's defense and pitching staff while strengthening the team's culture and competitive mindset.
"Lilly's experience and success as a catcher bring tremendous value to our program," Young said. "She is a fierce competitor whose leadership will elevate those around her. In addition to her defensive abilities, Lilly's offensive firepower will add another dynamic element to our lineup and help increase our run production."
Together, Hunnicutt and Vallimont form an exciting incoming battery that will play an important role in Duke's future success.
"We believe these transfer additions will be key pieces for our 2027 season," said Young. "Their talent, experience and commitment to excellence align perfectly with the standards of Duke softball. We can't wait to see the impact they make in Durham."
To stay up to date with Blue Devils softball, follow the team on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook by searching "DukeSOFTBALL"
#GoDuke
"We are thrilled to welcome Bayle and Lilly to the Duke softball family," said Young. "Both student-athletes bring talent, experience and a competitive spirit that will make an immediate impact on our program."
Hunnicutt joins the Blue Devils following a strong freshman campaign at Eastern Kentucky. In her debut season with the Colonels, Hunnicutt appeared in 36 games, earning 23 starts, and finished with an 8-8 ledger in the circle. She posted a 3.78 ERA and held opponents to a .241 batting average across 120.1 innings. She ranked third in the ASUN with 111 strikeouts, leading all rookies in the conference and capped off the year with All-ASUN Freshman Team honors. Hunnicutt is eager to continue developing her skills while competing at the highest level of collegiate softball.
"Bayle had a strong freshman season and possesses tremendous potential," Young added. "She is driven to grow her game and we are excited to help her continue that development here at Duke. Her work ethic, athleticism and competitive nature make her a great fit for our program."
Vallimont arrives in Durham following a four-year career at Michigan. After redshirting her freshman season, Vallimont started 173-of-174 career games behind the plate for the Wolverines. The Trenton, Michigan, native put together one of her strongest seasons in 2026, reaching career highs in hits, triples, home runs and RBI while helping guide Michigan to a 36-22 overall record and reach the NCAA Norman Regional championship game. Her veteran presence will provide valuable leadership to Duke's defense and pitching staff while strengthening the team's culture and competitive mindset.
"Lilly's experience and success as a catcher bring tremendous value to our program," Young said. "She is a fierce competitor whose leadership will elevate those around her. In addition to her defensive abilities, Lilly's offensive firepower will add another dynamic element to our lineup and help increase our run production."
Together, Hunnicutt and Vallimont form an exciting incoming battery that will play an important role in Duke's future success.
"We believe these transfer additions will be key pieces for our 2027 season," said Young. "Their talent, experience and commitment to excellence align perfectly with the standards of Duke softball. We can't wait to see the impact they make in Durham."
To stay up to date with Blue Devils softball, follow the team on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook by searching "DukeSOFTBALL"
#GoDuke
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