Oklahoma blasted its way back into the win column on Wednesday night with an 8-0 run-rule victory over Texas A&M Commerce in just four and a half innings. It was the type of dominating performance fans have become accustomed to seeing from the Sooners. Kierston Deal and Paytn Monticelli combined to throw OU’s 12th shutout of the season. The two combined to allow just three baserunners, retiring 15 of 18 batters faced with eight strikeouts.
From the plate, Kasidi Pickering and Ella Parker recorded 3 RBIs each, as the Sooners didn’t have a single batter strikeout all night. The Sooners exploded for five runs in the opening frame and then tacked on a single run in the second and then three more in the third.
Oklahoma extended its streak to 10 straight wins and five straight shutouts following a loss. The Sooners have outscored its opponents 56-0 in its last five games after a loss. In all, it was a solid night on the softball field but Patty Gasso needs to see more. After the game, she stated that she would like to see this team reach, “another level” now that conference play is approaching.
The talk we’ve had is more fight. We need more fight and relentlessness. In order to get what you want out of this conference you’ve got to be ready to play and never waste a pitch or an at bat. That’s something we need to showcase a little bit more. We’ve got to go to another level.”
Patty Gasso via the REF
Counting the Sooners, there are three teams from the Big 12 ranked within the Top 5, and a fourth conference program at #10. The Big 12 isn’t just conference play, it’s a gauntlet that prepares you for the Women’s College World Series if you’re lucky enough to survive it. Gasso knows that, her veterans know that, but the entire team needs to buy in for them to maintain their past levels of success.
Oklahoma will open Big 12 play with a doubleheader against Iowa State on Saturday.
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