One loss and the Hokies' season is over. If it comes today, it will end a storybook season for the softball program. It's been fun to follow the softball team this year at the game against Team USA, through ACC play and their run through the NCAA Tournament and WCWS. But there is still work to be done.
The Hokies face the No. 1 seed in the tournament, Florida at noon Saturday. With a win, the Gators will break the NCAA record for most wins in a season. The winner plays again at 7 p.m. while the loser goes 2NQ.
Florida is a team that relies heavily on its offense. Pitcher Stacey Nelson has struggled recently and the Hokies should have a chance to score some runs. Virginia Tech's Angela Tincher is pitching after a full day of rest, which is a big advantage for the Hokies. If Tincher throws the same quality game she did in her first game against Texas A&M, I believe the Hokies will win.
The key offensively for Tech will be getting runners into scoring position. They were able to collect six hits off Texas A&M pitcher Megan Gibson, but couldn't string them together or get down sacrifice bunts that would have moved runners over. A lot of runners were stranded at first base.
Nelson is the type of pitcher that the Hokies can excel against. She doesn't have a lot of big game experience and doesn't give up home runs, which the Hokies don't hit anyway. The home run Nelson gave up in the eighth inning Thursday against UL Lafayette was only the second she's allowed this season. However, she walks a lot of batters, something Virginia Tech should be able to take advantage of.
Gobbler Country at the WCWS
Game 1 vs. Texas A&M
WCWS Preview
Guide to OKC
WCWS Information
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