Florida has spent the last two weeks adjusting without one of its most versatile players.

Two-way star Ava Brown suffered a lower-leg injury 13 days ago in an 8–0 run-rule victory over Cal at the Judi Garman Classic, and her absence has forced the Gators to reshuffle both their lineup and pitching rotation.

Brown said in a March 3 statement that the diagnosis was better than expected and that she hopes to return soon. Coach Tim Walton addressed her status again Monday.

“There’s no timeline on Ava, so, you know, I don’t expect her back for a couple more weeks at least,” Walton said. “The fact that I’m even saying we might get Ava back in a few weeks will tell you the severity of that injury, so the fact that I can say she’s not using crutches; it’s awesome.” 

No. 5 Florida has played seven games without Brown, going 6-1. Its only loss was a 15-12 slugfest to UCLA, the only ranked opponent it has faced.

Without a key member of the bullpen, Florida’s pitching staff has relied on Keagan Rothrock. The Gators ace became the first Florida pitcher to record all three wins in an SEC series since Hannah Rogers in 2011. Brown wore a knee brace on her right leg throughout the series. 

Madison Walker and Ella Wesolowski have been key to Florida’s infield without Brown, with Walker getting most of her playing time at first base and Wesolowski playing designated hitter and catcher.

Florida (26-1, 3-0 SEC) will travel to Lexington to play Kentucky (19-6, 1-2 SEC) in its first away SEC series Friday at 5 p.m.