Lauren Hagedorn Hit First Collegiate Home Run
The Iowa State sophomore recorded her first collegiate homer during a preseason fall ball game against North Dakota State.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Softball
Iowa State athlete Lauren Hagedorn successfully cleared the fence to record her first collegiate home run during a fall ball game against North Dakota State University. This milestone occurred as the Cyclones wrapped up their preseason schedule.
Why it matters
The feat highlights Hagedorn's transition to the collegiate level after a decorated high school career where she became a prolific power hitter. Her performance during the fall schedule provides a look at the roster development for the upcoming spring season.
Hagedorn logged 15 home runs during her senior high school season and pitched two innings against North Dakota State during the recent fall exhibition.
The players
Lauren Hagedorn
She is an Iowa State softball player who previously starred at Adel-DeSoto-Minburn.
Iowa State
The Iowa State University athletic program fields the Cyclones softball team.
North Dakota State University
The Bison represent the collegiate athletic department of North Dakota State University.
The details
The home run was hit to left field during the team's fall preparation, which included matchups against North Dakota State, the University of Minnesota, and the University of Northern Iowa. Hagedorn previously demonstrated her versatility on the diamond, including playing first base in the game against the University of Minnesota.
Timeline
October 4, 2026: Hagedorn hit her first collegiate home run.
October 11, 2026: Iowa State fall ball season concluded.
March 2027: Regular season start.
March 12, 2027: Cyclones open 2027 season in Tucson.
Season Trajectory
The fall ball series follows the standard pattern established by the NCAA Division I fall ball exhibition schedule for player development. These games allow programs to evaluate talent and roster depth before the official regular season commences in the spring.
Hagedorn pitching two innings and playing first base during the fall indicates she may serve in a utility capacity for the Cyclones in 2027. Her performance suggests she is competing for a spot in the starting rotation or field lineup when the team opens in Tucson.
The takeaway
Hagedorn's ability to maintain her power-hitting pace at the collegiate level marks a significant step in her development. Fans should watch for her role in the lineup when the team shifts from exhibition play to the high-stakes environment of the regular season.
What happens next
The Iowa State Cyclones will open their 2027 season in Tucson, Arizona, on March 12, 2027.
Further reading
For more on the team's upcoming campaign, visit the Softball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Raccoon Valley Radio - The One to Count On.
