Taylor Mackin gives NIU a two-way edge in the circle
In the 2026 season, Northern Illinois’ Taylor Mackin has been a useful, flexible arm for the Huskies, making 15 appearances and finishing with a 4.91 ERA and 32 strikeouts over 59.2 innings, while also earning wins in key conference games and showing enough durability to be trusted in multiple roles. Her calling card is competitiveness: she can miss bats, handle pressure innings, and still contribute as a P/2B utility piece. The academic all-conference nod and solid team context suggest a dependable, team-first player who fits programs wanting grit, versatility, and a pitcher who won’t fold when the game gets spicy.