We're counting down the Top 10 moments in Virginia Tech sports from the 2007-08 season. The moments are judged on level of pride it brought to Hokie Nation, how great the accomplishment was and how much attention it brought the Hokies.
No. 3
We were there for history.
Tincher's no-hitter made headlines across the country and was possibly the most unique and greatest accomplishment by a Virginia Tech athlete in the history of the athletics department.
Virginia Tech will always be a football school, but from the time of Tincher's no-hitter to the appearance in the WCWS, the fans of the program caught softball fever (which sounds like a terrible, terrible ailment without proper context).
Showing posts with label hokie softball. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hokie softball. Show all posts
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Thursday, July 3, 2008
2008 No. 5 - Softball at the WCWS
We're counting down the Top 10 moments in Virginia Tech sports from the 2007-08 season. The moments are judged on level of pride it brought to Hokie Nation, how great the accomplishment was and how much attention it brought the Hokies.
No. 5
A great season for the Virginia Tech softball team culminated with a trip to the sport's grandest stage: The Women's College World Series in Oklahoma City.
Unfortunately, the Hokies lost both games in OKC. However, it was a wonderful ride to the World Series. Dramatic home runs gave the Hokies a regional win in Knoxville and outstanding pitching from Angela Tincher gave them a super-regional win in Ann Arbor.
Tincher pitched valiantly in the World Series, but the bats fell silent and Tech was shutout in both games.
Click here for World Series coverage and photos
No. 5
A great season for the Virginia Tech softball team culminated with a trip to the sport's grandest stage: The Women's College World Series in Oklahoma City.
Unfortunately, the Hokies lost both games in OKC. However, it was a wonderful ride to the World Series. Dramatic home runs gave the Hokies a regional win in Knoxville and outstanding pitching from Angela Tincher gave them a super-regional win in Ann Arbor.
Tincher pitched valiantly in the World Series, but the bats fell silent and Tech was shutout in both games.
Click here for World Series coverage and photos
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Road to OKC: UF 2, VT 0 (9)
The Hokies go 2NQ at the 2008 Women's College World Series after losing to No. 1 Florida, 2-0, Saturday in Oklahoma City.
Angela Tincher suffered the loss despite striking out 19. The Gators scored two runs in the ninth on a double by pinch hitter Mary Ratliff. Tincher struck out the first two batters of the inning, but gave up two singles and hit a batter before Ratliff's double.
The Hokies had a chance to win the game in the seventh. Erin Ota led off the inning and reached third on a fielding error by Florida center fielder Kim Waleszonia. Gator pitcher Stacey Nelson intentionally walked Charisse Mariconda and Misty Hall to load the bases for Kelsey Hoffman. However, Hoffman grounded into a double play and Jessica Everhart grounded out to end the inning.
Both Thursday and Saturday, early clouds gave way to bright sunshine and temps in the 90s. It was hot, but average for Oklahoma in late May. The Hokie fans Saturday were into the game, getting loud on almost every two-strike count. A few Hokies decided to have fun with the Florida faithful. Every time they started the "Gator Bait" chant, the Hokies behind me responded with chants of "We Eat Gator."
It was a great year for the Hokies and a great career for Angela Tincher. She delivered another brilliant performance, pitching her way out of trouble a few times in the game. However, the Hokie bats were again unable to provide any run support. Below are photos from Saturday's game.
Even softball fans tailgate in the a.m.
Fun at the WCWS Fan Fest
Bracket in front of the stadium
Statue in front of the stadium
Hokies prepare to take the field
Angela Tincher
Hokie fans from Stillwater, Okla.
Hokies are eliminated by Florida
Angela Tincher suffered the loss despite striking out 19. The Gators scored two runs in the ninth on a double by pinch hitter Mary Ratliff. Tincher struck out the first two batters of the inning, but gave up two singles and hit a batter before Ratliff's double.
The Hokies had a chance to win the game in the seventh. Erin Ota led off the inning and reached third on a fielding error by Florida center fielder Kim Waleszonia. Gator pitcher Stacey Nelson intentionally walked Charisse Mariconda and Misty Hall to load the bases for Kelsey Hoffman. However, Hoffman grounded into a double play and Jessica Everhart grounded out to end the inning.
Both Thursday and Saturday, early clouds gave way to bright sunshine and temps in the 90s. It was hot, but average for Oklahoma in late May. The Hokie fans Saturday were into the game, getting loud on almost every two-strike count. A few Hokies decided to have fun with the Florida faithful. Every time they started the "Gator Bait" chant, the Hokies behind me responded with chants of "We Eat Gator."
It was a great year for the Hokies and a great career for Angela Tincher. She delivered another brilliant performance, pitching her way out of trouble a few times in the game. However, the Hokie bats were again unable to provide any run support. Below are photos from Saturday's game.
Even softball fans tailgate in the a.m.
Fun at the WCWS Fan Fest
Bracket in front of the stadium
Statue in front of the stadium
Hokies prepare to take the field
Angela Tincher
Hokie fans from Stillwater, Okla.
Hokies are eliminated by Florida
Friday, May 30, 2008
Road to OKC: Game 2 vs. Florida
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
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
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Road to OKC: A&M 1, VT 0
It was an outstanding performance by two remarkable athletes in Angela Tincher and Megan Gibson. What I was most impressed by was Tincher dialing it up to 70 mph on four consecutive pitches to record two strikeouts with a potential go-ahead run on third base in the fourth.
However, in the sixth, Virginia Tech gave up the only run Texas A&M needed when the always reliable Charisse Mariconda threw wildly to first base on what would have been the third out of the inning. Virginia Tech outplayed a superior team for the most part, but was unable to string its hits together. Texas A&M was and the heart of its order scratched across an unearned run against Tincher, who was her typical dominant self.
Something you may not have noticed watching on TV: ESPN's TV breaks between innings were unbearably long. At the beginning of the game, Tincher and Gibson would complete their warmups and then have to wait almost a minute before the inning would start. Both adjusted and toward the end of the game would wait a minute in the dugout before going out to begin their warmups.
Tough luck for Tech. But, this is a double elimination tournament and they will get a chance to survive and advance against No. 1 Florida at noon Saturday. Below are pictures from Thursday's loss to A&M:
Entrance to Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium
Fan Fest outside the stadium
Game 1 between UF and ULL
The new and improved scoreboard at the stadium
Hokies before their first WCWS game
The Hokie Bird makes an appearance in OKC. First time ever?
Hokies take the field for the bottom of the first
Hokies bat in the top of the seventh
Hokies fall to A&M and enter the losers bracket
However, in the sixth, Virginia Tech gave up the only run Texas A&M needed when the always reliable Charisse Mariconda threw wildly to first base on what would have been the third out of the inning. Virginia Tech outplayed a superior team for the most part, but was unable to string its hits together. Texas A&M was and the heart of its order scratched across an unearned run against Tincher, who was her typical dominant self.
Something you may not have noticed watching on TV: ESPN's TV breaks between innings were unbearably long. At the beginning of the game, Tincher and Gibson would complete their warmups and then have to wait almost a minute before the inning would start. Both adjusted and toward the end of the game would wait a minute in the dugout before going out to begin their warmups.
Tough luck for Tech. But, this is a double elimination tournament and they will get a chance to survive and advance against No. 1 Florida at noon Saturday. Below are pictures from Thursday's loss to A&M:
Entrance to Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium
Fan Fest outside the stadium
Game 1 between UF and ULL
The new and improved scoreboard at the stadium
Hokies before their first WCWS game
The Hokie Bird makes an appearance in OKC. First time ever?
Hokies take the field for the bottom of the first
Hokies bat in the top of the seventh
Hokies fall to A&M and enter the losers bracket
Road to OKC: Game 1 vs. Texas A&M
The Hokies will have their hands full today against the Aggies. While they are getting most of the attention from the media, the Hokies are definitely the underdog. Outside of Megan Gibson, they Aggies don't have a lot of power threats. But they can all hit, with almost everyone in their batting order above .300.
It will be up to Angela Tincher to keep the Aggies at bay and give her offense a chance to scratch a run against Gibson. Gibson will go out there with something to prove. Many thought she should have been named player of the year over Tincher.
Check back later for a recap and photos from the game.
2008 WCWS
Gobbler Country Coverage
WCWS Preview
Guide to OKC
WCWS Information
Media Coverage
Oklahoman: After tragedy, it's hard not to pull for Hokies
Oklahoman: Hokies, Tincher recall no-hitter vs. Team USA
Roanoke Times: Angela Tincher's big test
Richmond Times-Dispatch: In a world of her own
Lynchburg News-Advance: Hokies depart for College Softball World Series
WDBJ7: Tech's softball team gears up for first College World Series
Norfolk Virginian-Pilot: Underdog Tech softball heads into its first College World Series
It will be up to Angela Tincher to keep the Aggies at bay and give her offense a chance to scratch a run against Gibson. Gibson will go out there with something to prove. Many thought she should have been named player of the year over Tincher.
Check back later for a recap and photos from the game.
2008 WCWS
Gobbler Country Coverage
WCWS Preview
Guide to OKC
WCWS Information
Media Coverage
Oklahoman: After tragedy, it's hard not to pull for Hokies
Oklahoman: Hokies, Tincher recall no-hitter vs. Team USA
Roanoke Times: Angela Tincher's big test
Richmond Times-Dispatch: In a world of her own
Lynchburg News-Advance: Hokies depart for College Softball World Series
WDBJ7: Tech's softball team gears up for first College World Series
Norfolk Virginian-Pilot: Underdog Tech softball heads into its first College World Series
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Road to OKC: WCWS Preview
Virginia Tech is definitely the underdog in this tournament. The Hokies are one of two unseeded teams in the field (UL Lafayette is the other). The key for the Virginia Tech will be avoiding playing two games in one day. They rely heavily on starting pitcher Angela Tincher and although she proved she is capable of being dominant in two games in one day in Ann Arbor, its important to get her arm as much rest as possible.
The good news for the Hokies is there isn't much WCWS experience on its side of the bracket. This is Florida's first appearance and UL Lafayette hasn't been since 2003. Texas A&M advances to the World Series last year and went 2NQ (2NQ - Two and Barbecue, or losing both games in a double elimination tournament). The lower half of the bracket is where all the muscle is in Alabama, Arizona State, Arizona and UCLA.
Obviously, if the Hokies can win their first two games, they will be in good shape. However, they will take quite an effort. They face Texas A&M and player of the year candidate Megan Gibson. Gibson is an outstanding all-around player. She is the Aggies best pitcher at 38-1, 0.98, is batting .345 and leads the team in home runs (13) and RBIs (48).
The Hokies were able to score runs thanks to errors and mental breakdowns by Michigan in the Super Regional. That won't happen against A&M. The Aggies have the best fielding percentage in the nation.
Should Tech beat A&M, they will likely face No. 1 seed Florida. The Gators are 67-3 this season and score runs in bunches. A win in their second game would give the Hokies a day off before facing the winner from the losers bracket. However, a loss would send them to the lower bracket, which might actually be tougher than the top half. It features the two-time defending national champion (Arizona), the highest scoring team in the nation (Alabama) and the greatest powerhouse in the history of softball (UCLA).
The Hokies have a great pitcher in Tincher, but at this point every team has a great pitcher. While Tincher is arguably the best pitcher in the nation, she will need help. The Hokies finally broke through with six runs in the third game of their Super Regional and they will need the same timely hitting in every game in OKC. Stranding the bases loaded like they did in the ACC tournament and their regional in Tennessee isn't an option. They are a team that relies on smallball and will need clutch hits to advance.
Texas A&M Aggies (54-7)
How they got here: Won Big 12 Tournament at Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City, hosted their regional, went 3-0 and beat Louisiana Tech to advance, hosted their super regional and swept Stanford.
Pitching: Ranked No. 7 in the country in ERA. Best pitcher is Meagan Gibson at 38-1, 0.98 in 40 appearances, 39 starts.
Hitting: Ranked No. 27 in the country in hitting. Best hitter is also Gibson, who is batting .345 and leads the team in home runs (13) and RBIs (48).
Notes: Have best fielding percentage in the nation...lost both games in 2007 WCWS...are on a 15-game winning streak...top three basestealers are a combined 42-for-43 on SB attempts.
Florida Gators (67-3)
How they got here: Won SEC Tournament in Baton Rouge, La., hosted their regional, went 3-1 and beat Central Florida to advance, hosted their super regional and swept Cal.
Pitching: Ranked No. 2 in the country in ERA behind Michigan. Best pitcher is Stacey Nelson at 45-3, 0.73 in 54 appearances, 44 starts.
Hitting: Ranked No. 16 in the country in hitting. Best hitter is Ali Gardiner, who is batting .405 with seven home runs and a team-best 56 RBIs. Have hit 61 home runs this season.
Notes: First ever trip to WCWS...lost to Texas A&M in the super regionals last season...67 wins ties NCAA record for victories in a season, set three times previously.
UL Lafayette (51-13)
How they got here: Won Sun Belt Tournament in Troy, Ala., went 3-0 in Baton Rouge regional, beating LSU to advance, traveled to Houston beat the Cougars in the super regional in three games.
Pitching: Ranked No. 16 in the country in ERA. No. 1 pitcher is true freshman Ashley Brignac at 30-5, 1.38 in 42 appearances, 33 starts. No. 2 pitcher is Donna Bourgeois at 16-4, 0.97 in 35 appearances, 20 starts.
Hitting: Ranked No. 9 in the country in hitting. The Ragin' Cajuns have four hitters ranked in the top 80 in the country in hitting. Best hitter is Holly Tankersley, who is hitting .452 and leads the team in home runs (21) and RBI (72).
Notes: Fifth WCWS appearance and since 2003...co-head coaches are husband and wife Michael and Stefni Lotief.
The good news for the Hokies is there isn't much WCWS experience on its side of the bracket. This is Florida's first appearance and UL Lafayette hasn't been since 2003. Texas A&M advances to the World Series last year and went 2NQ (2NQ - Two and Barbecue, or losing both games in a double elimination tournament). The lower half of the bracket is where all the muscle is in Alabama, Arizona State, Arizona and UCLA.
Obviously, if the Hokies can win their first two games, they will be in good shape. However, they will take quite an effort. They face Texas A&M and player of the year candidate Megan Gibson. Gibson is an outstanding all-around player. She is the Aggies best pitcher at 38-1, 0.98, is batting .345 and leads the team in home runs (13) and RBIs (48).
The Hokies were able to score runs thanks to errors and mental breakdowns by Michigan in the Super Regional. That won't happen against A&M. The Aggies have the best fielding percentage in the nation.
Should Tech beat A&M, they will likely face No. 1 seed Florida. The Gators are 67-3 this season and score runs in bunches. A win in their second game would give the Hokies a day off before facing the winner from the losers bracket. However, a loss would send them to the lower bracket, which might actually be tougher than the top half. It features the two-time defending national champion (Arizona), the highest scoring team in the nation (Alabama) and the greatest powerhouse in the history of softball (UCLA).
The Hokies have a great pitcher in Tincher, but at this point every team has a great pitcher. While Tincher is arguably the best pitcher in the nation, she will need help. The Hokies finally broke through with six runs in the third game of their Super Regional and they will need the same timely hitting in every game in OKC. Stranding the bases loaded like they did in the ACC tournament and their regional in Tennessee isn't an option. They are a team that relies on smallball and will need clutch hits to advance.
Texas A&M Aggies (54-7)
How they got here: Won Big 12 Tournament at Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City, hosted their regional, went 3-0 and beat Louisiana Tech to advance, hosted their super regional and swept Stanford.
Pitching: Ranked No. 7 in the country in ERA. Best pitcher is Meagan Gibson at 38-1, 0.98 in 40 appearances, 39 starts.
Hitting: Ranked No. 27 in the country in hitting. Best hitter is also Gibson, who is batting .345 and leads the team in home runs (13) and RBIs (48).
Notes: Have best fielding percentage in the nation...lost both games in 2007 WCWS...are on a 15-game winning streak...top three basestealers are a combined 42-for-43 on SB attempts.
Florida Gators (67-3)
How they got here: Won SEC Tournament in Baton Rouge, La., hosted their regional, went 3-1 and beat Central Florida to advance, hosted their super regional and swept Cal.
Pitching: Ranked No. 2 in the country in ERA behind Michigan. Best pitcher is Stacey Nelson at 45-3, 0.73 in 54 appearances, 44 starts.
Hitting: Ranked No. 16 in the country in hitting. Best hitter is Ali Gardiner, who is batting .405 with seven home runs and a team-best 56 RBIs. Have hit 61 home runs this season.
Notes: First ever trip to WCWS...lost to Texas A&M in the super regionals last season...67 wins ties NCAA record for victories in a season, set three times previously.
UL Lafayette (51-13)
How they got here: Won Sun Belt Tournament in Troy, Ala., went 3-0 in Baton Rouge regional, beating LSU to advance, traveled to Houston beat the Cougars in the super regional in three games.
Pitching: Ranked No. 16 in the country in ERA. No. 1 pitcher is true freshman Ashley Brignac at 30-5, 1.38 in 42 appearances, 33 starts. No. 2 pitcher is Donna Bourgeois at 16-4, 0.97 in 35 appearances, 20 starts.
Hitting: Ranked No. 9 in the country in hitting. The Ragin' Cajuns have four hitters ranked in the top 80 in the country in hitting. Best hitter is Holly Tankersley, who is hitting .452 and leads the team in home runs (21) and RBI (72).
Notes: Fifth WCWS appearance and since 2003...co-head coaches are husband and wife Michael and Stefni Lotief.
Road to OKC: WCWS Information
2008 Women's College World Series
Oklahoma City
Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium
May 29-June 4
Resources
HokieSports.com WCWS Page
NCAA Softball
WCWS Bracket
All College Assn WCWS Page
Tickets
Map to Stadium
Schedule
All Times Local (CDT)
Double elimination
May 29
Game 1 - Florida vs. UL Lafayette - Noon - ESPN
Game 2 - Texas A&M vs. Virginia Tech - 2 p.m. - ESPN
Game 3 - Alabama vs. Arizona State - 6 p.m. - ESPN
Game 4 - Arizona vs. UCLA - 8 p.m. - ESPN
May 30
Game 5 - Winner G1 vs. Winner G2 - 6 p.m. - ESPN2
Game 6 - Winner G3 vs. Winner G4 - 8 p.m. - ESPN2
May 31
Game 7 - Loser G1 vs. Loser G2 - 11 a.m. - ESPN
Game 8 - Loser G3 vs. Loser G4 - 1 p.m. - ESPN
Game 9 - Winner G7 vs. Loser G6 - 6 p.m. - ESPN
Game 10 - Winner G8 vs. Loser G6 - 8 p.m. - ESPN
June 1
Game 11 - Winner G5 vs. Winner G9 - Noon - ESPN
Game 12 - Winner G6 vs. Winner G10 - 2 p.m. - ESPN
Game 13 - Game 11 rematch if necessary - 6 p.m. - ESPN2
Game 14 - Game 12 rematch if necessary - 8 p.m. - ESPN2
Championship Series (Best of 3)
June 2 - Game 1 - 7 p.m. - ESPN2
June 3 - Game 2 - 7 p.m. - ESPN2
June 4 - Game 3 (if necessary) - 7 p.m. - ESPN2
Oklahoma City
Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium
May 29-June 4
Resources
HokieSports.com WCWS Page
NCAA Softball
WCWS Bracket
All College Assn WCWS Page
Tickets
Map to Stadium
Schedule
All Times Local (CDT)
Double elimination
May 29
Game 1 - Florida vs. UL Lafayette - Noon - ESPN
Game 2 - Texas A&M vs. Virginia Tech - 2 p.m. - ESPN
Game 3 - Alabama vs. Arizona State - 6 p.m. - ESPN
Game 4 - Arizona vs. UCLA - 8 p.m. - ESPN
May 30
Game 5 - Winner G1 vs. Winner G2 - 6 p.m. - ESPN2
Game 6 - Winner G3 vs. Winner G4 - 8 p.m. - ESPN2
May 31
Game 7 - Loser G1 vs. Loser G2 - 11 a.m. - ESPN
Game 8 - Loser G3 vs. Loser G4 - 1 p.m. - ESPN
Game 9 - Winner G7 vs. Loser G6 - 6 p.m. - ESPN
Game 10 - Winner G8 vs. Loser G6 - 8 p.m. - ESPN
June 1
Game 11 - Winner G5 vs. Winner G9 - Noon - ESPN
Game 12 - Winner G6 vs. Winner G10 - 2 p.m. - ESPN
Game 13 - Game 11 rematch if necessary - 6 p.m. - ESPN2
Game 14 - Game 12 rematch if necessary - 8 p.m. - ESPN2
Championship Series (Best of 3)
June 2 - Game 1 - 7 p.m. - ESPN2
June 3 - Game 2 - 7 p.m. - ESPN2
June 4 - Game 3 (if necessary) - 7 p.m. - ESPN2
Monday, May 26, 2008
Road to OKC: Hokies punch their ticket
The Hokies are coming back to OKC. Virginia Tech has advanced to the Women's College World Series by beating Michigan 1-0 and 6-1 Sunday in Ann Arbor. The WCWS begins Thursday at Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium, the same site of Virginia Tech's 1-0 win over Team USA in March.
In the first game Sunday, Tech scored an unearned run in the first inning on a throwing error by Michigan catcher Roya St. Clair. Angela Tincher made the run hold up by striking out 15 Wolverines. In the decisive game, Tech scored four runs in the third inning off Michigan pitchers Nikki Nimitz and Jordan Taylor.
Taylor and the rest of the Wolverines lost their composure after they felt Taylor was being squeezed by the home plate umpire. She struggled to find the plate and walked in the first run of the game. Taylor and other members of the Michigan team were seen shouting at the umpire while others slammed their gloves to the ground after ball/strike calls did not go their way.
The Hokies, however, maintained their heads and coasted to a 6-1 win and a berth in the WCWS. The Hokies looked like the veteran team with a national title under their belts, not the Wolverines.
The Hokies will face Texas A&M in their first game at 3 p.m. EDT Thursday in OKC. Check this blog Tuesday for a preview of the WCWS. I plan on attending all Virginia Tech's games during the tournament and look forward to seeing a lot of Hokies in Oklahoma City this week.
In the first game Sunday, Tech scored an unearned run in the first inning on a throwing error by Michigan catcher Roya St. Clair. Angela Tincher made the run hold up by striking out 15 Wolverines. In the decisive game, Tech scored four runs in the third inning off Michigan pitchers Nikki Nimitz and Jordan Taylor.
Taylor and the rest of the Wolverines lost their composure after they felt Taylor was being squeezed by the home plate umpire. She struggled to find the plate and walked in the first run of the game. Taylor and other members of the Michigan team were seen shouting at the umpire while others slammed their gloves to the ground after ball/strike calls did not go their way.
The Hokies, however, maintained their heads and coasted to a 6-1 win and a berth in the WCWS. The Hokies looked like the veteran team with a national title under their belts, not the Wolverines.
The Hokies will face Texas A&M in their first game at 3 p.m. EDT Thursday in OKC. Check this blog Tuesday for a preview of the WCWS. I plan on attending all Virginia Tech's games during the tournament and look forward to seeing a lot of Hokies in Oklahoma City this week.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Road to OKC: Super Regional Preview
The Hokies are two wins away from returning to Oklahoma City for the Women's College World Series. After winning the Knoxville Regional with a Metallica-inspired 4-2 win over Tennessee Sunday, the Hokies travel to Ann Arbor, Mich., for a best-of-three series with the Michigan Wolverines.
Michigan has become a softball powerhouse the last few years. However, they have not made the WCWS since winning the national championship in 2005. They have lost in a Super Regional each of the last two seasons. However, this season is different because for the first time since 2005, the Wolverines are hosting the Super Regional.
The Wolverines are the No. 4 national seed in the NCAA Tournament and ranked No. 6 in the coaches poll.
Michigan Wolverines (51-6)
How they got here: Earned an at-large bid out of the Big Ten conference and were given the No. 4 national seed in the tournament. Michigan went 3-0 in the Ann Arbor regional, easily beating Wright State, Notre Dame and Kent State.
Hitting: Michigan features one of the most feared hitters in college softball in 1B Samantha Findlay. She is best known for hitting a championship-winning, three-run home run to beat UCLA in the 10th inning of game three in the championship series as a freshman in 2005. This year, she leads the team in almost every significant statistical category including hitting (.401), home runs (21) and RBIs (69). At the end of the regular season, the Wolverines were batting .302, 29th in the NCAA. Their 5.39 runs per game is ranked 24th.
Pitching: Michigan finished the regular season with the best pitching staff in the nation with a 0.78 ERA. Freshman Jordan Taylor is 30-3, 0.70 and sophomore Nikki Nemitz is 21-3, 0.97. Together, they account for every inning pitched by a Wolverine this season.
Notes: In 2005, became the first school east of the Mississippi and the first cold-weather school to win the national title...Wolverines are 12-2 at home this season with losses to Northwestern and Iowa.
Analysis
This won't be easy. Expect runs to be at a premium as the best pitcher in the nation (Tech's Angela Tincher) faces the nation's best pitching staff (Taylor and Nemitz). What worries me is that the Michigan pitchers don't give up a lot of home runs. Taylor gave up eight in 210.0 innings and Nemitz gave up four in 174.0 innings. The Hokies tend to score runs on home runs. They scored 10 runs in Knoxville and eight of them came on homers. The Hokies will need to succeed more when playing small ball. They've left a lot of runners on base in the ACC and NCAA Tournaments.
Fair or not, this will probably come down to Tincher. She's not going to have a lot of room for error and one run may be too many for the Hokie offense to compensate for. The key will be every time Tincher faces Findlay. She's drives the Wolverine offense and Tincher has to keep her from doing damage.
The schedule favors Michigan's ability to use two pitchers. The Hokies will likely use Tincher in all three games and if Game 3 is necessary, it will mean she has to pitch three games in two days.
Schedule
Hokies at Michigan Wolverines
Wilpon Complex at Alumni Field
Ann Arbor, Mich.
All Times EDT
Game 1 - Sat., May 24 - Noon (ESPN)
Game 2 - Sun., May 25 - 1 p.m. (ESPN)
Game 3 - Sun., May 25 - 3 p.m. (If necessary - ESPN)
Super Regional Information
NCAA Tournament Bracket
Michigan has become a softball powerhouse the last few years. However, they have not made the WCWS since winning the national championship in 2005. They have lost in a Super Regional each of the last two seasons. However, this season is different because for the first time since 2005, the Wolverines are hosting the Super Regional.
The Wolverines are the No. 4 national seed in the NCAA Tournament and ranked No. 6 in the coaches poll.
Michigan Wolverines (51-6)
How they got here: Earned an at-large bid out of the Big Ten conference and were given the No. 4 national seed in the tournament. Michigan went 3-0 in the Ann Arbor regional, easily beating Wright State, Notre Dame and Kent State.
Hitting: Michigan features one of the most feared hitters in college softball in 1B Samantha Findlay. She is best known for hitting a championship-winning, three-run home run to beat UCLA in the 10th inning of game three in the championship series as a freshman in 2005. This year, she leads the team in almost every significant statistical category including hitting (.401), home runs (21) and RBIs (69). At the end of the regular season, the Wolverines were batting .302, 29th in the NCAA. Their 5.39 runs per game is ranked 24th.
Pitching: Michigan finished the regular season with the best pitching staff in the nation with a 0.78 ERA. Freshman Jordan Taylor is 30-3, 0.70 and sophomore Nikki Nemitz is 21-3, 0.97. Together, they account for every inning pitched by a Wolverine this season.
Notes: In 2005, became the first school east of the Mississippi and the first cold-weather school to win the national title...Wolverines are 12-2 at home this season with losses to Northwestern and Iowa.
Analysis
This won't be easy. Expect runs to be at a premium as the best pitcher in the nation (Tech's Angela Tincher) faces the nation's best pitching staff (Taylor and Nemitz). What worries me is that the Michigan pitchers don't give up a lot of home runs. Taylor gave up eight in 210.0 innings and Nemitz gave up four in 174.0 innings. The Hokies tend to score runs on home runs. They scored 10 runs in Knoxville and eight of them came on homers. The Hokies will need to succeed more when playing small ball. They've left a lot of runners on base in the ACC and NCAA Tournaments.
Fair or not, this will probably come down to Tincher. She's not going to have a lot of room for error and one run may be too many for the Hokie offense to compensate for. The key will be every time Tincher faces Findlay. She's drives the Wolverine offense and Tincher has to keep her from doing damage.
The schedule favors Michigan's ability to use two pitchers. The Hokies will likely use Tincher in all three games and if Game 3 is necessary, it will mean she has to pitch three games in two days.
Schedule
Hokies at Michigan Wolverines
Wilpon Complex at Alumni Field
Ann Arbor, Mich.
All Times EDT
Game 1 - Sat., May 24 - Noon (ESPN)
Game 2 - Sun., May 25 - 1 p.m. (ESPN)
Game 3 - Sun., May 25 - 3 p.m. (If necessary - ESPN)
Super Regional Information
NCAA Tournament Bracket
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Road to OKC: Knoxville Regional Preview
The Hokies begin their quest for the Women's College World Series this weekend in Knoxville, Tenn. Tennessee hosts Tech, Louisville and Winthrop May 16-18 for the right to advance to a Super Regional against the winner of the Ann Arbor Regional.
The road to Oklahoma City will be a tough one for the Hokies. Their region is full of solid teams. It will take an outstanding effort from Angela Tincher and timely hitting from the Hokies' batting order to advance out of Knoxville.
This is Tech's fourth consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament. The Hokies have been bounced from the tournament before the regional's final day in each of the previous three seasons.
In 2006, the Hokies were sent to the Knoxville Regional and faced Louisville in the first round. They beat the Cards on day one, 1-0 in 12 innings. However, they lost to Tennessee and Louisville on day two by a combined score of 19-2.
Tennessee (47-14)
How they got here: The Lady Vols received an at-large bid from the SEC. They lost to Florida in the semifinals of the SEC tournament, 6-1.
Hitting: No. 12 in the nation at .317. 1B Tonya Callahan is No. 6 in the country in hitting with a .469 batting average. Callahan has 16 of their 38 home runs this season. She leads Tennessee in home runs and RBIs (61). The Lady Vols are No. 20 in the country in scoring, averaging 5.58 runs per game.
Pitching: No. 40 in the country in ERA at 2.05. The good news is Monica Abbott has graduated and moved on to Team USA. However, Tennessee still has a solid pitcher in Ashton Ward, who is 27-5, 1.94 this season.
Notes: The Lady Vols are seeking their fourth consecutive trip to Oklahoma City...they are 26-6 at home this season, 18-0 in non-conference home games.
Louisville (30-21)
How they got here: The Cards received an at-large bid out of the Big East conference. They lost to USF, 2-1, in the semifinals of the Big East tournament.
Hitting: Not ranked at .270. They are No. 77 in the country in scoring at 4.37 runs per game. Their leading hitter is C Melissa Roth at .361. She is also their biggest threat on the basepaths, successful on nine of 11 stolen base attempts. Freshman 3B Chelsea Bemis leads the Cards in RBIs with 49. No other player has more than 26.
Pitching: No. 83 in the country with a 2.61. Their ace is Kristen Wadwell at 18-13, 2.19.
Notes: 14-10 in road and neutral games...this is their fifth consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament.
Winthrop (36-17)
How they got here: Automatic berth as the Big South champion. Beat Liberty, 6-1, in the Big South championship game.
Hitting: No. 66 in the country at .282. No. 68 in scoring with 4.44 runs per game. OF Lisa Kingsmore is No. 9 in the nation in hitting at .459. She is second on the team in RBIs with 30 behind 3B Mallory Hogan's 49.
Pitching: No. 20 in the nation with a 1.50. Sophomore Megan Evans is No. 38 in the country in ERA with a 1.32. She is 18-6 this season.
Notes: 17-12 in road and neutral games...lost to Virginia Tech, 3-0, in the championship game of the Hokies United Memorial Tournament in Botetourt, Va., Feb. 24.
Schedule (all times EDT)
Friday, May 16
Game 1 - 2:30 - Virginia Tech vs. Louisville
Game 2 - 5:00 - Tennessee vs. Winthrop
Saturday, May 17
Game 3 - Noon - Winner Game 1 vs. Winner Game 2 (ESPN2)
Game 4 - 2:30 - Loser Game 1 vs. Loser Game 2
Game 5 - 5:00 - Loser Game 3 vs. Winner Game 4
Sunday, May 18
Game 6 - 1:30 - Winner Game 3 vs. Winner Game 5
Game 7 - 4:00 - Rematch of Game 6 (if necessary)
Regional Information from UTSports.com
NCAA Tournament Bracket
ESPN Preview
Off Topic: D3 WCWS in Salem
The D3 WCWS will be played in Salem, Va., May 16-20. Lynchburg College (39-6) has advanced to the D3 WCWS as the No. 2 seed in the tournament. The Hornets will face Muskingum at 6:30 p.m. Friday.
The road to Oklahoma City will be a tough one for the Hokies. Their region is full of solid teams. It will take an outstanding effort from Angela Tincher and timely hitting from the Hokies' batting order to advance out of Knoxville.
This is Tech's fourth consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament. The Hokies have been bounced from the tournament before the regional's final day in each of the previous three seasons.
In 2006, the Hokies were sent to the Knoxville Regional and faced Louisville in the first round. They beat the Cards on day one, 1-0 in 12 innings. However, they lost to Tennessee and Louisville on day two by a combined score of 19-2.
Tennessee (47-14)
How they got here: The Lady Vols received an at-large bid from the SEC. They lost to Florida in the semifinals of the SEC tournament, 6-1.
Hitting: No. 12 in the nation at .317. 1B Tonya Callahan is No. 6 in the country in hitting with a .469 batting average. Callahan has 16 of their 38 home runs this season. She leads Tennessee in home runs and RBIs (61). The Lady Vols are No. 20 in the country in scoring, averaging 5.58 runs per game.
Pitching: No. 40 in the country in ERA at 2.05. The good news is Monica Abbott has graduated and moved on to Team USA. However, Tennessee still has a solid pitcher in Ashton Ward, who is 27-5, 1.94 this season.
Notes: The Lady Vols are seeking their fourth consecutive trip to Oklahoma City...they are 26-6 at home this season, 18-0 in non-conference home games.
Louisville (30-21)
How they got here: The Cards received an at-large bid out of the Big East conference. They lost to USF, 2-1, in the semifinals of the Big East tournament.
Hitting: Not ranked at .270. They are No. 77 in the country in scoring at 4.37 runs per game. Their leading hitter is C Melissa Roth at .361. She is also their biggest threat on the basepaths, successful on nine of 11 stolen base attempts. Freshman 3B Chelsea Bemis leads the Cards in RBIs with 49. No other player has more than 26.
Pitching: No. 83 in the country with a 2.61. Their ace is Kristen Wadwell at 18-13, 2.19.
Notes: 14-10 in road and neutral games...this is their fifth consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament.
Winthrop (36-17)
How they got here: Automatic berth as the Big South champion. Beat Liberty, 6-1, in the Big South championship game.
Hitting: No. 66 in the country at .282. No. 68 in scoring with 4.44 runs per game. OF Lisa Kingsmore is No. 9 in the nation in hitting at .459. She is second on the team in RBIs with 30 behind 3B Mallory Hogan's 49.
Pitching: No. 20 in the nation with a 1.50. Sophomore Megan Evans is No. 38 in the country in ERA with a 1.32. She is 18-6 this season.
Notes: 17-12 in road and neutral games...lost to Virginia Tech, 3-0, in the championship game of the Hokies United Memorial Tournament in Botetourt, Va., Feb. 24.
Schedule (all times EDT)
Friday, May 16
Game 1 - 2:30 - Virginia Tech vs. Louisville
Game 2 - 5:00 - Tennessee vs. Winthrop
Saturday, May 17
Game 3 - Noon - Winner Game 1 vs. Winner Game 2 (ESPN2)
Game 4 - 2:30 - Loser Game 1 vs. Loser Game 2
Game 5 - 5:00 - Loser Game 3 vs. Winner Game 4
Sunday, May 18
Game 6 - 1:30 - Winner Game 3 vs. Winner Game 5
Game 7 - 4:00 - Rematch of Game 6 (if necessary)
Regional Information from UTSports.com
NCAA Tournament Bracket
ESPN Preview
Off Topic: D3 WCWS in Salem
The D3 WCWS will be played in Salem, Va., May 16-20. Lynchburg College (39-6) has advanced to the D3 WCWS as the No. 2 seed in the tournament. The Hornets will face Muskingum at 6:30 p.m. Friday.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Road to OKC: ESPN takes advantage of Tincher hype
If you watched ESPNU's coverage of the NCAA Lacrosse Tournament over the weekend, you saw Angela Tincher's face a lot during halftime and between games. The network ran a feature on Virginia Tech's softball win over Team USA several times during the weekend, especially on Sunday after the Hokies won the ACC softball tournament.The game has rebroadcast several times on ESPN2, giving the country a glimpse at the Hokie program's greatest moment. Now, the Hokies have another chance to appear on the network.
If the Hokies beat Louisville Friday in the first round of their NCAA regional in Knoxville, they will face the winner of Tennessee-Winthrop. That game will be broadcast live on ESPN2 at noon EDT Saturday.
It is one of three regional games scheduled for ESPN2 this weekend. Games six and seven from Tuscaloosa will also be shown live. ESPNU has coverage of every game from the UCLA regional.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Weekend News and Notes: May 9
Here's what's happening around Gobbler Country for May 9-11:
Softball
The Hokies continue play at the ACC Tournament in College Park, Md. Tech beat Maryland, 7-4, in the first round Thursday. The Hokies face FSU Friday at 12:30 p.m. If they win, they don't play again until 11 a.m. Saturday. A loss means they have to win four games in three days to win the ACC Tournament. That road would begin at 8 tonight against BC, who eliminated Maryland late Thursday.
Angela Tincher was named ACC Pitcher of the Year for the third consecutive season. She and 3B Charisse Mariconda were named to the All-ACC first team. C Kelsey Hoffman and OF Jenna Rhodes were named second-team All-ACC.
UPDATE: The Hokies successfully defended their ACC title by beating NC State, 2-0, Sunday to claim the 2008 ACC Championship. The tournament was shortened to single-elimination after heavy rains in the College Park area Friday. Tincher was named the tournament MVP after no-hitting FSU in the semifinals and shutting out NC State in the title game. The NCAA Tournament Selection Show is 10 p.m. Sunday on ESPNU and ESPNEWS.
Baseball
Tech plays host to a three-game series against No. 1 Miami. The Hokies and 'Canes meet at 5:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday at English Field.
The Hokies are 0-9 all-time against the 'Canes and will be hard-pressed to earn their first victory over Miami this weekend. Miami is 20-2 in ACC play, with losses to Florida State and NC State.
The 'Cane hitters have scored 208 runs and hit 40 home runs in 22 ACC games and will face a Tech pitching staff that has is 4-20, 6.73 in ACC play. 1B Yonder Alonso is hitting .358 with 10 home runs and 27 RBIs against ACC opponents.
UPDATE: The Hokies shocked the Hurricanes in game two of the series, beating them, 7-6, in game one of a doubleheader Saturday. Tech trailed, 5-1, after four, but scored three in the seventh to tie the game at six and scored the winning run in the eighth on a double by Austin Wates. Justin Wright pitched a complete game for the Hokies to improve to 3-0 this season. Klint Reed was 3-for-4 with a homer and three RBIs to pace Tech offensively. Miami took the other two games of the three-game series.
Tennis
The No. 30 Hokies begin NCAA Tournament play at 2 p.m. Saturday in Knoxville, Tenn., against No. 37 Kentucky. If the Hokies advance, they would play at 2 p.m. Sunday. No. 8 Tennessee and Furman are the other two teams in Tech's regional.
Kentucky boasts the No. 20 singles player in NCAA, Bruno Agostinelli, from Niagra Falls, Canada. He is 22-13 this season and is the likely opponent for Tech's No. 1 player, Albert Larregola, from Lleida, Spain. Larregola is 27-14 this season and has already secured a spot in the NCAA singles competition, set for May 21-26 in Tulsa, Okla.
This is Tech's second consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament. The Hokies fell to Old Dominion in the first round last season, 4-3.
UPDATE: Tech beat Kentucky, 4-0 in the first round Saturday and fell, 4-0, to Tennessee in the second round Sunday.
Former Hokies
Patrick Nyarko (Soccer): Nyarko is currently on the MLS Chicago Fire's reserve team. The Fire reserves play at 10 a.m. Friday at D.C. United. He started in both of the previous two Fire reserve games, once as a midfielder and once as a forward. He scored the Fire reserves' lone goal in their previous game April 20 against Kansas City.
UPDATE: Nyarko had an assist in Chicago's 2-0 win in the reserve match. He now has a goal and an assist in three reserve matches this season.
Joe Saunders (Baseball): The former Hokie pitcher has had an incredible start to the 2008 campaign. He is 6-0, 2.61 in seven starts this season. He takes the mound at 7:10 p.m. Saturday at Tampa Bay opposite the Rays' Scott Kazmir. Saunders was shaky in his previous start, May 4 against the Orioles. He gave up four runs on 12 hits, but earned the win. The Springfield, Va., native is tied for the AL lead in wins with teammate Ervin Santana, the Yankees' Chein-Ming Wang and the Indians' Cliff Lee. He is eighth in the AL in ERA.
UPDATE: Saunders took his first loss of the season in the Angels' 2-0 loss to Tampa Bay Saturday. Saunders gave up a run on four hits, all singles, walked four and struck out three in 6.0 innings. He is now 6-1, 2.48. The Rays loaded the bases with one out in the first inning off Saunders and scored their lone run off him on a ground out by Evan Longoria. Saunders would not allow another runner past first base. The Angels had a chance to get a no-decision for Saunders in the eighth when they loaded the bases with one out. However, neither Torii Hunter nor Garrett Anderson could get the ball out of the infield to end the threat.
Softball
The Hokies continue play at the ACC Tournament in College Park, Md. Tech beat Maryland, 7-4, in the first round Thursday. The Hokies face FSU Friday at 12:30 p.m. If they win, they don't play again until 11 a.m. Saturday. A loss means they have to win four games in three days to win the ACC Tournament. That road would begin at 8 tonight against BC, who eliminated Maryland late Thursday.
Angela Tincher was named ACC Pitcher of the Year for the third consecutive season. She and 3B Charisse Mariconda were named to the All-ACC first team. C Kelsey Hoffman and OF Jenna Rhodes were named second-team All-ACC.
UPDATE: The Hokies successfully defended their ACC title by beating NC State, 2-0, Sunday to claim the 2008 ACC Championship. The tournament was shortened to single-elimination after heavy rains in the College Park area Friday. Tincher was named the tournament MVP after no-hitting FSU in the semifinals and shutting out NC State in the title game. The NCAA Tournament Selection Show is 10 p.m. Sunday on ESPNU and ESPNEWS.
Baseball
Tech plays host to a three-game series against No. 1 Miami. The Hokies and 'Canes meet at 5:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday at English Field.
The Hokies are 0-9 all-time against the 'Canes and will be hard-pressed to earn their first victory over Miami this weekend. Miami is 20-2 in ACC play, with losses to Florida State and NC State.
The 'Cane hitters have scored 208 runs and hit 40 home runs in 22 ACC games and will face a Tech pitching staff that has is 4-20, 6.73 in ACC play. 1B Yonder Alonso is hitting .358 with 10 home runs and 27 RBIs against ACC opponents.
UPDATE: The Hokies shocked the Hurricanes in game two of the series, beating them, 7-6, in game one of a doubleheader Saturday. Tech trailed, 5-1, after four, but scored three in the seventh to tie the game at six and scored the winning run in the eighth on a double by Austin Wates. Justin Wright pitched a complete game for the Hokies to improve to 3-0 this season. Klint Reed was 3-for-4 with a homer and three RBIs to pace Tech offensively. Miami took the other two games of the three-game series.
Tennis
The No. 30 Hokies begin NCAA Tournament play at 2 p.m. Saturday in Knoxville, Tenn., against No. 37 Kentucky. If the Hokies advance, they would play at 2 p.m. Sunday. No. 8 Tennessee and Furman are the other two teams in Tech's regional.
Kentucky boasts the No. 20 singles player in NCAA, Bruno Agostinelli, from Niagra Falls, Canada. He is 22-13 this season and is the likely opponent for Tech's No. 1 player, Albert Larregola, from Lleida, Spain. Larregola is 27-14 this season and has already secured a spot in the NCAA singles competition, set for May 21-26 in Tulsa, Okla.
This is Tech's second consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament. The Hokies fell to Old Dominion in the first round last season, 4-3.
UPDATE: Tech beat Kentucky, 4-0 in the first round Saturday and fell, 4-0, to Tennessee in the second round Sunday.
Former Hokies
Patrick Nyarko (Soccer): Nyarko is currently on the MLS Chicago Fire's reserve team. The Fire reserves play at 10 a.m. Friday at D.C. United. He started in both of the previous two Fire reserve games, once as a midfielder and once as a forward. He scored the Fire reserves' lone goal in their previous game April 20 against Kansas City.
UPDATE: Nyarko had an assist in Chicago's 2-0 win in the reserve match. He now has a goal and an assist in three reserve matches this season.
Joe Saunders (Baseball): The former Hokie pitcher has had an incredible start to the 2008 campaign. He is 6-0, 2.61 in seven starts this season. He takes the mound at 7:10 p.m. Saturday at Tampa Bay opposite the Rays' Scott Kazmir. Saunders was shaky in his previous start, May 4 against the Orioles. He gave up four runs on 12 hits, but earned the win. The Springfield, Va., native is tied for the AL lead in wins with teammate Ervin Santana, the Yankees' Chein-Ming Wang and the Indians' Cliff Lee. He is eighth in the AL in ERA.
UPDATE: Saunders took his first loss of the season in the Angels' 2-0 loss to Tampa Bay Saturday. Saunders gave up a run on four hits, all singles, walked four and struck out three in 6.0 innings. He is now 6-1, 2.48. The Rays loaded the bases with one out in the first inning off Saunders and scored their lone run off him on a ground out by Evan Longoria. Saunders would not allow another runner past first base. The Angels had a chance to get a no-decision for Saunders in the eighth when they loaded the bases with one out. However, neither Torii Hunter nor Garrett Anderson could get the ball out of the infield to end the threat.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Tincher's No-hitter on ESPN2 Tonight
You can see the tape delay of Angela Tincher's no-hitter against Team USA at 7 p.m. EDT tonight on ESPN2. The Hokies beat Team USA, 1-0, March 26 in Oklahoma City. Click here for the original report and photos from the game.
This weekend, the Hokies travel to College Park, Md., for the ACC Tournament. Tech is the No. 2 seed and will face host Maryland in the first round at 12:30 p.m. Thursday. If the Hokies win, they will face the winner of the Florida State-Boston College game at 10 a.m. Friday. Should they fall to the Terps, they face the FSU-BC loser at 8 p.m. Saturday.
A look at Tech's side of the bracket:
(Rankings are ACC games only)
No. 3 Florida State
Regular Season: The Hokies took two of three from the Seminoles in Blacksburg April 18-19.
Pitching: 4th in the ACC with a 2.09 ERA...while she's only started nine games, freshman Sarah Hamilton has been FSU's best pitcher this year...she is 8-1, 1.46 in 17 appearances.
Hitting: 2nd in the ACC at .257...76 runs are second-most in ACC play this year...best run producer is Brittany Osman, who has nine doubles, six home runs and 41 RBIs this year.
No. 6 Boston College
Regular Season: The Hokies swept the Eagles in Chestnut Hill April 12-13.
Pitching: 7th in the ACC with a 4.01 ERA...opponents are hitting .277 against primary starter Allison Gage.
Hitting: 8th in the ACC at .192...also have most strikeouts in ACC play of any of the eight ACC teams...Renee Ramos is only player batting above .300 at .346.
No. 7 Maryland
Regular Season: The Hokies took two of three from the Terps in College Park March 29-30.
Pitching: 5th in the ACC with a 3.36 ERA...in 25 appearances, 13 starts, Meredith Nelles is 10-3, 2.17.
Hitting: 5th in the ACC at .225...Sarde Stewart leads the team in hitting (.345), home runs (10) and RBIs (47).
The Hokies and North Carolina are far and away the most complete teams in the conference and should have no trouble advancing to face one another in the championship game. All games will be webcast on ACCSelect.com. The championship game will be televised on various regional sports networks at noon Sunday.
This weekend, the Hokies travel to College Park, Md., for the ACC Tournament. Tech is the No. 2 seed and will face host Maryland in the first round at 12:30 p.m. Thursday. If the Hokies win, they will face the winner of the Florida State-Boston College game at 10 a.m. Friday. Should they fall to the Terps, they face the FSU-BC loser at 8 p.m. Saturday.
A look at Tech's side of the bracket:
(Rankings are ACC games only)
No. 3 Florida State
Regular Season: The Hokies took two of three from the Seminoles in Blacksburg April 18-19.
Pitching: 4th in the ACC with a 2.09 ERA...while she's only started nine games, freshman Sarah Hamilton has been FSU's best pitcher this year...she is 8-1, 1.46 in 17 appearances.
Hitting: 2nd in the ACC at .257...76 runs are second-most in ACC play this year...best run producer is Brittany Osman, who has nine doubles, six home runs and 41 RBIs this year.
No. 6 Boston College
Regular Season: The Hokies swept the Eagles in Chestnut Hill April 12-13.
Pitching: 7th in the ACC with a 4.01 ERA...opponents are hitting .277 against primary starter Allison Gage.
Hitting: 8th in the ACC at .192...also have most strikeouts in ACC play of any of the eight ACC teams...Renee Ramos is only player batting above .300 at .346.
No. 7 Maryland
Regular Season: The Hokies took two of three from the Terps in College Park March 29-30.
Pitching: 5th in the ACC with a 3.36 ERA...in 25 appearances, 13 starts, Meredith Nelles is 10-3, 2.17.
Hitting: 5th in the ACC at .225...Sarde Stewart leads the team in hitting (.345), home runs (10) and RBIs (47).
The Hokies and North Carolina are far and away the most complete teams in the conference and should have no trouble advancing to face one another in the championship game. All games will be webcast on ACCSelect.com. The championship game will be televised on various regional sports networks at noon Sunday.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
This weekend at Tech
Here's what's going on around Hokie sports for the weekend of April 24-25:
Softball vs. North Carolina
The No. 18 Hokies (39-12, 15-3) close out ACC play by hosting the No. 14 Tar Heels (47-8, 16-1). The two teams play a doubleheader starting at noon Saturday and play the third game of the series at 1 p.m. on Sunday.
UNC has a two game lead on the Hokies in the loss column of the ACC standings. Tech would have to sweep the Tar Heels to be regular season ACC champs and get the top seed in the ACC Tournament.
The Hokies were 3-0 against the Tar Heels in 2007, beating them twice in Chapel Hill and once at the ACC Tournament. Tech is 5-1 at home against the ACC this season.
UNC has a pair of capable pitchers. Danielle Spalding is 14-2, 0.92 in 18 appearances (16 starts) and Lisa Norris is 17-3, 0.98 in 24 appearances (21 starts). Spalding is also one of the Tar Heels' top hitters. She is tied for the team lead in home runs with 10 while batting .326 with 32 RBIs.
Baseball at Clemson
Tech (18-23, 4-17) travels to Clemson for a three-game series with the Tigers (21-20-1, 7-13-1). The two teams play at 7:15 p.m. Friday, 7 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. The Hokies are 2-10 on the road in ACC play this season. Both wins came against Wake Forest.
By Clemson standards, it's been a sub-par year for the Tigers. They are third in the Atlantic division and are battling for a spot in the ACC Tournament. Tiger pitchers are a bit gopherball-prone. They've allowed 43 this season in 369.1 IP. Tech batters have hit 31 home runs this season. Clemson is led offensively by Ben Paulsen, who is hittting .314 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs.
Softball vs. North Carolina
The No. 18 Hokies (39-12, 15-3) close out ACC play by hosting the No. 14 Tar Heels (47-8, 16-1). The two teams play a doubleheader starting at noon Saturday and play the third game of the series at 1 p.m. on Sunday.
UNC has a two game lead on the Hokies in the loss column of the ACC standings. Tech would have to sweep the Tar Heels to be regular season ACC champs and get the top seed in the ACC Tournament.
The Hokies were 3-0 against the Tar Heels in 2007, beating them twice in Chapel Hill and once at the ACC Tournament. Tech is 5-1 at home against the ACC this season.
UNC has a pair of capable pitchers. Danielle Spalding is 14-2, 0.92 in 18 appearances (16 starts) and Lisa Norris is 17-3, 0.98 in 24 appearances (21 starts). Spalding is also one of the Tar Heels' top hitters. She is tied for the team lead in home runs with 10 while batting .326 with 32 RBIs.
Baseball at Clemson
Tech (18-23, 4-17) travels to Clemson for a three-game series with the Tigers (21-20-1, 7-13-1). The two teams play at 7:15 p.m. Friday, 7 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. The Hokies are 2-10 on the road in ACC play this season. Both wins came against Wake Forest.
By Clemson standards, it's been a sub-par year for the Tigers. They are third in the Atlantic division and are battling for a spot in the ACC Tournament. Tiger pitchers are a bit gopherball-prone. They've allowed 43 this season in 369.1 IP. Tech batters have hit 31 home runs this season. Clemson is led offensively by Ben Paulsen, who is hittting .314 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Tincher Making Headlines
Two days later and it's still hard to believe what I saw Wednesday night. Anglela Tincher delivered the single most dominant individual performance I've ever seen in sport.
She faced the best there was in her sport and didn't let them sniff a hit. Bustos had one loud foul in her second at-bat, but that was it. There wasn't another time where you thought "there goes the no-no."
However, despite how dominating she was, the crowd never rallied around her. There was no "Rocky IV" moment where the underdog won over the crowd. She got her applause when it was over, but in my view it was more like the home team's fans applauding a no-hitter by an opposing pitcher than appreciation. It wasn't like she just no-hit OU, she no-hit the freaking Olympic team.
Tincher's "Miracle on Dirt," as HokieSports.com called it, has gotten her and the Hokie softball team a lot of recognition:
ESPN.com: Tincher ends USA Softball's streak, proves she can beat the best
Oklahoman: Hokies' Tincher no-hits Team USA
Oklahoman: Virginia Tech softball team finds connection on trip to Oklahoma City
Roanoke Times: Hokies still celebrating win over Olympic team
Collegiate Times: Hokies pull off monumental upset
TechSideline: A First-Hand Report of VTs Stunning Softball Win
She faced the best there was in her sport and didn't let them sniff a hit. Bustos had one loud foul in her second at-bat, but that was it. There wasn't another time where you thought "there goes the no-no."
However, despite how dominating she was, the crowd never rallied around her. There was no "Rocky IV" moment where the underdog won over the crowd. She got her applause when it was over, but in my view it was more like the home team's fans applauding a no-hitter by an opposing pitcher than appreciation. It wasn't like she just no-hit OU, she no-hit the freaking Olympic team.
Tincher's "Miracle on Dirt," as HokieSports.com called it, has gotten her and the Hokie softball team a lot of recognition:
ESPN.com: Tincher ends USA Softball's streak, proves she can beat the best
Oklahoman: Hokies' Tincher no-hits Team USA
Oklahoman: Virginia Tech softball team finds connection on trip to Oklahoma City
Roanoke Times: Hokies still celebrating win over Olympic team
Collegiate Times: Hokies pull off monumental upset
TechSideline: A First-Hand Report of VTs Stunning Softball Win
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Road Trip No. 1: Hokies vs. Team USA
Gobbler Country Road Trip No. 1
Softball: Hokies vs. Team USA
ASA Don E. Porter Hall of Fame Stadium
Oklahoma City, Okla.
Miles Round Trip: 60
Total Dollars Spent: $25 ($10 ticket, $15 Shirt)
Tinch > Finch.
The first ever Gobbler Country Road Trip was a home game for me. And the Hokies felt right at home in Oklahoma City as well. Hokie phenom pitcher Angela Tincher no-hit the best softball team in the world as the Hokies beat Team USA, 1-0.
To put that into perspective, Team USA came into the game 17-0 on its pre-Olympic tour. Only one previous team had scored on them and they had just finished beating DePaul, 23-0. And the one and only Jennie Finch was starting in the circle for the Red, White and Blue.
All Tincher did was not allow hit, not allow a ball out of the infield, walk one and strikeout 10. She dominated the world's elite.
I said earlier today that for the Hokies to win, Tincher would have to pitch the game of her life and Tech would have to get a gift run. That's pretty much what happened. Obviously, it was an incredible performance by Tincher. The Hokies scored in the second when Kelsey Hoffman led off the inning with a double. Pinch runner Anna Zitt advanced to third on an illegal pitch by Finch and then scored on a single by Caroline Stolle.
That was all Tincher needed. You'll be hard-pressed to find a more dominating performance by a pitcher at any level in either softball or baseball. Set your TiVos for 7 p.m. May 6 when the game is shown on ESPN2. Amazing performance.
Photos from OKC:
Entrance to Hall of Fame Stadium
Inside the stadium
Hokies pregame warm-ups
Jennie Finch
Angela Tincher
Tincher's first batter, Caitlin Lowe
Hokies get a runner to third in the second
Coach Scot Thomas congratulates the Hokies after scoring in the second
Facing Jennie Finch
Tincher and the Hokies between innings
Monica Abbott
The coaching staff before the bottom of the seventh
Tincher completes the no-no
Hokies 1, USA 0
Coach Thomas addresses the team after the game
Tincher interviewed by ESPNTuesday, March 25, 2008
Busy Day for Hokie Sports
A trio of Tech sports have big events Wednesday. Frank Beamer's football team opens Spring Practice with several key positions needing to be filled. Seth Greenberg's men's basketball team hosts Ole Miss for the right to advance to the NIT semifinals at Madison Square Garden. And Scot Thomas' softball team faces Team USA in an exhibition at ASA Don E. Porter Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City.
While most of Hokie Nation will be focused on the events in Blacksburg, I'll be at the softball game here in OKC. The first Gobbler Country Road Trip will be a short one and pictures from the game will be posted Wednesday night.
Football: Spring Has Sprung
The Hokie football team begins life without Branden Ore on the first day of Spring Practice. And the player Hokie fans are probably most eager to see won't be part of the action. Ryan Williams, one of the signature players of the most recent recruiting class, won't be on campus until August. That gives juniors Kenny Lewis and Jahre Cheeseman and sophomores Darren Evans and Josh Oglesby a head start on securing the starting tailback spot.
My guess is the Hokies will be tailback-by-committee next season until two front-runners emerge. I don't see one back taking on the bulk of the carries next season. Lewis is a good change-of-pace back, but running between the tackles isn't his bread and butter. The other three will probably split the bulk of the carries.
On defense, linebacker will be the main cause for concern for the Hokies following the departure of Xavier Adibi and Vince Hall. Cam Martin returns after having a pleasantly surprising sophomore season. Brett Warren filled in admirably while Hall was injured last season and could take over for Hall in the fall.
Last year's star of spring and fall practice, Jason Worilds, is set to see more time at defensive end with the departure of Chris Ellis. Worilds, Nekos Brown and Orion Martin appear on paper to be at the front of the rotation at DE. I see Orion Martin stepping up and having a Darryl Tapp-like season and Worilds setting himself up to do the same in 2009. Putting pressure on the quarterback will be key for this year's defense. Barring injury, this group looks like it will do plenty of if.
Playmaker exraordinair Macho Harris will be Virginia Tech's starting boundary corner this season, but will also see time at receiver in the spring. Tech lost four experienced wide receivers after last season and Harris will be a welcomed site for quarterbacks Sean Glennon and Tyrod Taylor.
It will be Taylor's first Spring Practice after playing as a true freshman last season. The spring drills will be his chance to take more snaps from Glennon, who became better as the year went on last season and was a main reason the Hokies won five games in a row to capture the ACC title last season. I believe Glennon is still needed in the offense. He's a good leader and an excellent passer. However, until the running game is shored up, you will probably see more of Taylor than Glennon early next season.
With two experienced quarterbacks and a healthier offensive line, I believe Spring Practice is more critical for the Hokies defense. A lot of leadership is gone from that side of the ball from last season. Not only is it important for Virginia Tech to find new starters, its important for leaders to emerge from the returning starters. I think Kam Chancellor will be the one to step up. He had an outstanding season in 2007 and I believe he could be the leader of the 2008 defense.
Basketball: Start Spreadin' the News...
...the Hokies are one win away from New York City. Seth Greenberg's bunch plays host to Ole Miss Wednesday at 7 p.m.
The Hokies are riding a wave of momentum coming into their quarterfinal tilt. A raucous crowd sparked Tech in its win over UAB Monday. It appears the atmosphere will be more electric for Wednesday's game.
If Tech can use that momentum and play defense like it did against UAB, Ole Miss doesn't stand a chance. But the Rebels are a better team than UAB and are led by senior Dwayne Curtis, who average nearly a double-double per game.
Ole Miss' point guard, Chris Warren, is a freshman and getting him to turn the ball over will be key for the Hokies. Warren leads the Rebels in scoring though two NIT games, averaging 17 points per game and has nine assists and three turnovers in those games.
Game Guide
Who: Virginia Tech (21-13) vs. Ole Miss (23-10)
What: NIT Quarterfinal
When: 7 p.m., ESPN2
Where: Cassell Coliseum - Blacksburg, Va.
Why Virginia Tech Wins: Cassell will be rockin', Hokies will force turnovers and score transition buckets, Ole Miss is awful on the road (2-7)
Why Ole Miss Wins: Dwayne Curtis dominates the paint, David Huertas gets hot from behind the arc, Ole Miss hasn't lost against a non-SEC foe this season (16-0)
Dot-Dot-Dots: Through two NIT games, the Hokies are shooting 56 percent while holding their opponents to just under 40 percent from the field...the Rebels have turned the ball over 31 times and Tech 26 in the NIT...Ole Miss is 1-6 all-time on the road in the NIT.
Up Next: Winner faces the Ohio State-Dayton winner in the semifinals of the NIT April 1 in New York City.
Best in the Nation vs. Best in the World
Tech All-America pitcher Angela Tincher get a shot at Team USA at 6:30 p.m. Central Wednesday in Oklahoma City. The game will be broadcast on tape delay by ESPN 2 at 7 p.m. Eastern May 6.
Tincher comes into the contest at 15-4, 0.46 (9 ER/138.1 IP) in 22 appearances, 17 starts for the No. 24 Hokies. She has 282 stikeouts against 34 walks this season. She is 248 strikeouts away from becoming the third pitcher in NCAA history to record 2,000 Ks.
While its just an exhibition, the game is a good way for the Hokies and Tincher to get national attention. Anytime you can get put on ESPN, even through tape delay, is a good recruiting tool in softball. It also gives the Hokies a chance to test their skills against a vastly superior opponent.
Tech has already faced Arizona, UCLA and Northwestern this season, but they now face the best softball team in the world. Tincher is arguably the best pitcher in college softball right now and gets her chance to show what she can do on a large stage.
No pitching rotation was announced by USA Softball for their series in Oklahoma City. They beat Oklahoma State, 7-0 Monday, Oklahoma, 2-0 Tuesday and play both DePaul and Tech Wednesday. However, neither Jennie Finch nor Cat Osterman has started for them so far in the series. Both pitched in relief last night against OU. Finch pitched three inning and Osterman one inning. There's a chance Tech could face one or both on Wednesday.
I have no delusions of grandeur about Tech winning this game. Team USA is 16-0 on its Bound 4 Beijing Tour and only one team has scored on them. Cal State-Fullerton got on the board in a 9-3 loss March 19. It will still be fun to see them in person and see what they can do in the spotlight. I hope they impress.
Game Guide
Who: Virginia Tech (23-9) vs. Team USA (16-0)
What: Bound 4 Beijing Tour
When: 6:30 p.m. Central, ESPN2 tape delay at 7 p.m. Eastern on May 6
Where: ASA Don E. Porter Hall of Fame Stadium - Oklahoma City, Okla.
Why Virginia Tech Wins: Angela Tincher throws the game of her career, Hokies get a gift run
Why Team USA Wins: They're the best softball team in the world
Dot-Dot-Dots: This is the second time in Tech history its faced Team USA, the Hokies were no-hit, 12-0, against Team USA in 2004...Texas' Osterman, Tennessee's Monica Abbott and Alabama's Kelly Kretschman are the only members of Team USA that are not products of California or Arizona schools...the Hokies hope this isn't their first trip to OKC, ASA Don E. Porter Hall of Fame Stadium hosts the Women's College World Series each year.
Up Next: The Hokies travel to Maryland for a three-game series March 29-30. They return home for a three-game series against UVa April 5-6.
While most of Hokie Nation will be focused on the events in Blacksburg, I'll be at the softball game here in OKC. The first Gobbler Country Road Trip will be a short one and pictures from the game will be posted Wednesday night.
Football: Spring Has Sprung
The Hokie football team begins life without Branden Ore on the first day of Spring Practice. And the player Hokie fans are probably most eager to see won't be part of the action. Ryan Williams, one of the signature players of the most recent recruiting class, won't be on campus until August. That gives juniors Kenny Lewis and Jahre Cheeseman and sophomores Darren Evans and Josh Oglesby a head start on securing the starting tailback spot.My guess is the Hokies will be tailback-by-committee next season until two front-runners emerge. I don't see one back taking on the bulk of the carries next season. Lewis is a good change-of-pace back, but running between the tackles isn't his bread and butter. The other three will probably split the bulk of the carries.
On defense, linebacker will be the main cause for concern for the Hokies following the departure of Xavier Adibi and Vince Hall. Cam Martin returns after having a pleasantly surprising sophomore season. Brett Warren filled in admirably while Hall was injured last season and could take over for Hall in the fall.
Last year's star of spring and fall practice, Jason Worilds, is set to see more time at defensive end with the departure of Chris Ellis. Worilds, Nekos Brown and Orion Martin appear on paper to be at the front of the rotation at DE. I see Orion Martin stepping up and having a Darryl Tapp-like season and Worilds setting himself up to do the same in 2009. Putting pressure on the quarterback will be key for this year's defense. Barring injury, this group looks like it will do plenty of if.
Playmaker exraordinair Macho Harris will be Virginia Tech's starting boundary corner this season, but will also see time at receiver in the spring. Tech lost four experienced wide receivers after last season and Harris will be a welcomed site for quarterbacks Sean Glennon and Tyrod Taylor.
It will be Taylor's first Spring Practice after playing as a true freshman last season. The spring drills will be his chance to take more snaps from Glennon, who became better as the year went on last season and was a main reason the Hokies won five games in a row to capture the ACC title last season. I believe Glennon is still needed in the offense. He's a good leader and an excellent passer. However, until the running game is shored up, you will probably see more of Taylor than Glennon early next season.
With two experienced quarterbacks and a healthier offensive line, I believe Spring Practice is more critical for the Hokies defense. A lot of leadership is gone from that side of the ball from last season. Not only is it important for Virginia Tech to find new starters, its important for leaders to emerge from the returning starters. I think Kam Chancellor will be the one to step up. He had an outstanding season in 2007 and I believe he could be the leader of the 2008 defense.
Basketball: Start Spreadin' the News...
...the Hokies are one win away from New York City. Seth Greenberg's bunch plays host to Ole Miss Wednesday at 7 p.m.The Hokies are riding a wave of momentum coming into their quarterfinal tilt. A raucous crowd sparked Tech in its win over UAB Monday. It appears the atmosphere will be more electric for Wednesday's game.
If Tech can use that momentum and play defense like it did against UAB, Ole Miss doesn't stand a chance. But the Rebels are a better team than UAB and are led by senior Dwayne Curtis, who average nearly a double-double per game.
Ole Miss' point guard, Chris Warren, is a freshman and getting him to turn the ball over will be key for the Hokies. Warren leads the Rebels in scoring though two NIT games, averaging 17 points per game and has nine assists and three turnovers in those games.
Game Guide
Who: Virginia Tech (21-13) vs. Ole Miss (23-10)
What: NIT Quarterfinal
When: 7 p.m., ESPN2
Where: Cassell Coliseum - Blacksburg, Va.
Why Virginia Tech Wins: Cassell will be rockin', Hokies will force turnovers and score transition buckets, Ole Miss is awful on the road (2-7)
Why Ole Miss Wins: Dwayne Curtis dominates the paint, David Huertas gets hot from behind the arc, Ole Miss hasn't lost against a non-SEC foe this season (16-0)
Dot-Dot-Dots: Through two NIT games, the Hokies are shooting 56 percent while holding their opponents to just under 40 percent from the field...the Rebels have turned the ball over 31 times and Tech 26 in the NIT...Ole Miss is 1-6 all-time on the road in the NIT.
Up Next: Winner faces the Ohio State-Dayton winner in the semifinals of the NIT April 1 in New York City.
Best in the Nation vs. Best in the World
Tech All-America pitcher Angela Tincher get a shot at Team USA at 6:30 p.m. Central Wednesday in Oklahoma City. The game will be broadcast on tape delay by ESPN 2 at 7 p.m. Eastern May 6.Tincher comes into the contest at 15-4, 0.46 (9 ER/138.1 IP) in 22 appearances, 17 starts for the No. 24 Hokies. She has 282 stikeouts against 34 walks this season. She is 248 strikeouts away from becoming the third pitcher in NCAA history to record 2,000 Ks.
While its just an exhibition, the game is a good way for the Hokies and Tincher to get national attention. Anytime you can get put on ESPN, even through tape delay, is a good recruiting tool in softball. It also gives the Hokies a chance to test their skills against a vastly superior opponent.
Tech has already faced Arizona, UCLA and Northwestern this season, but they now face the best softball team in the world. Tincher is arguably the best pitcher in college softball right now and gets her chance to show what she can do on a large stage.
No pitching rotation was announced by USA Softball for their series in Oklahoma City. They beat Oklahoma State, 7-0 Monday, Oklahoma, 2-0 Tuesday and play both DePaul and Tech Wednesday. However, neither Jennie Finch nor Cat Osterman has started for them so far in the series. Both pitched in relief last night against OU. Finch pitched three inning and Osterman one inning. There's a chance Tech could face one or both on Wednesday.
I have no delusions of grandeur about Tech winning this game. Team USA is 16-0 on its Bound 4 Beijing Tour and only one team has scored on them. Cal State-Fullerton got on the board in a 9-3 loss March 19. It will still be fun to see them in person and see what they can do in the spotlight. I hope they impress.
Game Guide
Who: Virginia Tech (23-9) vs. Team USA (16-0)
What: Bound 4 Beijing Tour
When: 6:30 p.m. Central, ESPN2 tape delay at 7 p.m. Eastern on May 6
Where: ASA Don E. Porter Hall of Fame Stadium - Oklahoma City, Okla.
Why Virginia Tech Wins: Angela Tincher throws the game of her career, Hokies get a gift run
Why Team USA Wins: They're the best softball team in the world
Dot-Dot-Dots: This is the second time in Tech history its faced Team USA, the Hokies were no-hit, 12-0, against Team USA in 2004...Texas' Osterman, Tennessee's Monica Abbott and Alabama's Kelly Kretschman are the only members of Team USA that are not products of California or Arizona schools...the Hokies hope this isn't their first trip to OKC, ASA Don E. Porter Hall of Fame Stadium hosts the Women's College World Series each year.
Up Next: The Hokies travel to Maryland for a three-game series March 29-30. They return home for a three-game series against UVa April 5-6.
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