The number one ranked Florida Gator softball team dominated their season opener against the Hampton Pirates with a 17-0 victory. The game was cut short after the top of the fifth due to mercy rule.
Coming into the season, uncertainty was surrounding the pitching staff. With the loss of Hannah Rogers, arguably the best pitcher in Gator softball’s 19-year history, someone needed to fill the big void she left in the circle. Lauren Haeger is on the right track to fill that void.
In three innings pitched, Haeger did not allow a single base runner while striking out six. Gator coach Tim Walton announced this week that he does not have an ace to rely on, yet Haeger has made a strong case to start the season.
The Pirates were not able to get a hit until freshman pitcher Aleshia Ocasio was on the mound in the top of the fourth, but that was all they would get all game. Ocasio finished her single inning of work with two strikeouts. Sophomore pitcher Delanie Gourley closed out the game for the Gators in the top of the fifth by striking out the side.
In terms of offense, the Gators had no trouble in that department. Freshman Janell Wheaton drove in four runs in her Gator debut. Junior second baseman Kelsey Stewart drove in all three of her runs batted in on a bases clearing triple. The triple was Stewart’s 17th of her career, tying the Florida softball record for most triples with Kim Waleszonia.
Florida will be back in action today in a double-header. At 1:30, the Gators will take on the eighth ranked Michigan Wolverines. Then at 3:45, they will take on Illinois State.