Gainesville Region 2014 Softball World Series Breakdown
#5 Florida, UCF, Stetson, Florida A&M
Florida is looking for yet another trip to the WCWS and the journey begins at home in Gainesville. With powerful bats and an ace in the circle, the Gators have everything they need to get back to Oklahoma City. Lauren Haeger, Stephanie Tofft and Kristi Merritt all hit at least ten home runs during the 2014 campaign. Kelsey Stewart hit six long balls of her own, but she is usually the one trotting home in front of the power hitters. Stewart hit an amazing .421 on the year and stole 30 bases. Florida ranks fourth in the nation in home runs per game, 11th in slugging percentage and sixth in scoring offense. Few teams will have an easy time keeping them off of the board. But scoring on pitcher Hannah Rogers has proven difficult as well. With a 1.83 ERA while playing a brutal schedule, the senior is certainly ready to shut down most offenses in the tournament. Having a stellar defense behind her does not hurt either.
However, the Gators have a tough draw in the regionals with familiar foes UCF, Stetson and Florida A&M joining them in Gainesville. The Knights had an amazing season in the AAC, finishing with a 15-3 conference mark. Superb pitching from Mackenzie Audas and Shelby Turnier is a huge reason for their success. Ironically, Audas, Turnier and Rogers all had tough outings when UCF met Florida back in March. The Gators won that contest 10-6. UCF had a more expected outing against Stetson, winning 1-0 and losing 3-0 during the regular season. Like the Knights, the Hatters have made it this far because of their pitching. Senior Meredith Owen has put up some amazing numbers both in the circle and at the plate, yet she will need consistent help from players like Demi Meza, Jessie Tenbroeck and Courtney Brandt if Stetson is going to advance to the super regionals.
See All 2014 Softball World Series Regional Breakdowns
