SB Drops Opener vs #3 Florida 9-4

The Softball Team lost its first game of the season today against #3 Florida.  We we leading 4-0 in the top of the 7th with 2 outs; then the wheels came off hard and fast.  UF scored 4 in the top of the 7th to tie the game.  We did not score in the bottom of the 7th.  In the top of the 8th, UF scored 5.  That was the end of the scoring; UF 9, UM 4.

Sara was the starting pitcher and had only scattered a few hits until the 7th.  UF hit a bases loaded double to score 3.  Megan Besta came in and walked one and had a HB to load the bases for a second time in the inning.  UF scored on a single to tie the score.

In the 8th, UF went long again and Sara returned to the mound without much success.  Haylie came in to stop the damage but it was to late.

Sierra Romero was the bright spot on offense.  She hit a grand slam in the 3rd.  Caitlyn Blanchard and Abby Ramirex had 2 hits while Lyndsay, Colie, and Kelsey Susella each had one hit apiece.  We ended the game with 4 runs off 8 hits.

Sara's stat line was 8 runs (3 ER), 5 Ks and 1 BB.  Megan had 1 BB and 1 HBP in relief.  Haylie gave up 1 ER on 2 hits.

Overall not a horrible game for us.  We had an error in the 7th that was the key play of the game.  Now, some will critisize Hutch for leaving Sara in the game too long (ala, Leland).  I agree with this strategy for the most part.  You want to ride the horse that you brought, barring any injury or any assignable cause.

We play USF tonight, so hopefully the ladies can regroup and come back strong.

The defense was:

Sara P

Lauren C

Caitlyn 1B

Abby 2B

Romo SS

kelsey 3B

Kelly Cristen LF

Lyndsay CF

Colie RF