Florida Softball State of the Union: Statement Series Victory

While some other Florida teams might not be at their best, Gators softball provided another example of its dominance as it went 2-1 in its series against No. 1 Tennessee this weekend.

The No. 5 Gators have won every SEC series and are now 8-1 in the conference. But this was Florida’s first series win against the Volunteers since 2019. It also marked their first victory against the Lady Vols in general since 2022. 

“I don’t like to put too much weight into teams because as soon as you put too much on a top-ranked team or not enough on an unranked team, then you get beat,” Florida coach Tim Walton said. 

Sophomore Taylor Shumaker batted .500 in the series and has a 15-game hitting streak. Shumaker also hit her 13th home run of the season. 

Kenleigh Cahalan, Madison Walker and Cassidy McLellan also hit home runs in the series.

“I honestly believe that with the coaching staff I have and the great hitters I have around me, that if I’m at my best then nobody can really beat me,” Shumaker said.

The Gators offense has been elite, but their defense, led by pitcher Keagan Rothrock, has also contributed to the team’s success. Rothrock is now tied for eighth-most wins in program history with 66 wins as a starter. Additionally, pitchers Olivia Miller and Katelynn Oxley got opportunities in the circle during Saturday’s victory.

“There is not a weekend where you can go in the SEC and use one pitcher; it truly does take a staff,” Rothrock said. 

The Florida defense finished the series with a perfect fielding percentage. It only has one error through SEC play.

Florida looks like the team to beat, firing on all cylinders. The Gators will resume action at home against Stetson on Wednesday before traveling for its next series against Arkansas. 

Category: Gators Softball, Softball