The stage is set for another epic showdown between softball powerhouses as the three-time defending national champion Oklahoma Sooners prepare to host the Florida State Seminoles in the Norman Super Regional, kicking off on May 23rd. This highly anticipated matchup carries significant weight, not only for the coveted trip to the Women’s College World Series but also due to the recent history between these two teams.
Renewed Rivalry:
This marks the third time in four years that Oklahoma and Florida State will meet in a postseason series, with both teams yearning to add another chapter to their championship stories. In 2021, the Sooners emerged victorious after dropping the opening game, showcasing their resilience. Last season, it was Jordy Bahl’s dominant pitching that secured Oklahoma’s third consecutive title against the Seminoles.
Home Field Advantage for the Sooners:
The Sooners boast a dominant home-field advantage, having hosted six consecutive Super Regionals and appearing in 14 straight overall. This familiar setting, coupled with a passionate Sooner fanbase, will undoubtedly be a factor for Oklahoma.
Florida State’s Freshman Ace:
While both teams have lost their pitching stars from last season – Jordy Bahl for Oklahoma and Kathryn Sandercock for Florida State – the Seminoles are confident in their freshman phenom, Ashtyn Danley. Leading the team with a 3.12 ERA and over 130 innings pitched, Danley’s performance in the circle will be crucial to Florida State’s success. The Sooners have shown vulnerability against left-handed pitching this year, making Danley’s presence a significant challenge.
Oklahoma’s Pitching Staff Shares the Load
Oklahoma’s pitching staff is led by aces Nicole May and Kelly Maxwell. May provides leadership and consistency, while Maxwell’s gritty performances have been a key factor in the postseason. Sophomore lefty Kierston Deal, who boasts a stellar 1.62 ERA, could also see significant innings. The Sooners will rely on a strong defense and a mix of veterans and promising youngsters to keep opposing offenses in check.
Offensive Firepower on Both Sides:
Both teams possess explosive offenses that can erupt at any moment. Oklahoma’s lineup boasts familiar names like Tiare Jennings and Jayda Coleman, while Florida State features established sluggers Michaela Edenfield and Kalei Harding. However, the Seminoles’ biggest offensive threat might be freshman sensation Jaysoni Beachum, leading the team in batting average and RBIs.
Key Storylines:
- Can Oklahoma continue their dominance at home and secure their fourth consecutive WCWS appearance?
- Will Florida State’s freshman pitcher, Ashtyn Danley, rise to the pressure and silence the Sooner bats?
- Who will step up offensively in this high-stakes matchup?
Norman Super Regional Schedule:
- Game 1: Thursday, May 23rd at 6:00 PM CT (ESPN2)
- Game 2: Friday, May 24th at 7:00 PM CT (ESPN+)
- Game 3 (if necessary): Saturday, May 25th (Time TBD)
This Super Regional promises to be a thrilling battle between two evenly matched teams. The combination of past rivalries, talented players, and the pressure of reaching the WCWS creates an unmissable atmosphere. Sooner fans will be out in full force, but Florida State comes prepared to pull off an upset. Get ready for a softball spectacle as these two titans clash in Norman!
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