The Oklahoma Sooners softball team put on a dominant performance on Saturday by sweeping a doubleheader against the Iowa State Cyclones. Improving their record to an impressive 21-1 for the season and a strong 2-0 start in Big 12 conference play, OU proved that last weekend’s shocking loss to Louisiana is definitely behind them.
Sooner Bats Come Alive
The Sooner offense exploded in game two, scoring in every single inning to secure an 11-2 victory in five inning by run-rule. Cydney Sanders led the offensive charge with a pair of home runs, while the team as a whole blasted a total of four dingers. This offensive outburst is a sign that the Sooners could be finding their groove and have the potential to put up big numbers as conference play moves forward.
Adjustments After Game One
Head Coach Patty Gasso acknowledged that the Sooners’ energy level in the first game wasn’t at its peak. However, the team responded well with a much sharper performance in the second game. This ability to make adjustments and bounce back after a less than ideal showing bodes well for Oklahoma’s resilience throughout the season.
Oklahoma won the series opener 4-0, and while the offensive energy may have been lacking what was taking place in the pitching circle was magnificent. OU left-hander Kelly Maxwell tossed a gem, striking out eight in a complete-game four-hit shutout. She walked three while throwing 75 of her 126 pitches for strikes (59.5%) and improved to 6-0 on the season.
The Sooners opened the scoring in the third courtesy of an Alyssa Brito (1-for-2, RBI) single that plated Avery Hodge. One inning later, Cydney Sanders (1-for-2, BB, R, HR, 3 RBI) launched a three-run home run (her first of three on the day) out to right field to provide key insurance runs.
Maxwell wouldnโt need much more help, shutting down the Iowa State lineup the rest of the way. The Cyclones advanced just two runners to third base in the game as she cruised through her 23rd career shutout.
Looking Ahead
The series sweep against Iowa State is on the line for tomorrow. The Sooners have shown that they have a potent offense and a deep pitching staff, but this conference is deep so they’ll continued focus and improvement, as they remain a strong contender for another Big 12 title and beyond.
The series finale is set to start at 1:00 and will air on ESPN+ as well as 1560 AM/103.3 FM The Franchise 2.
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