Monday, April 24, 2006
Kansas finally ended its curse of the seventh inning.
After losing numerous games in the seventh inning, including Saturday’s game on a solo home run, Kansas ended its curse, defeating No. 2 Texas 1-0 Sunday at Arrocha Ballpark.
“This definitely gives us confidence knowing we can go seven,” said senior pitcher Serena Settlemier.
Kansas (27-21, 6-7) nearly extended its curse in the seventh inning, allowing Texas (45-5, 11-2) to load the bases.
Texas shortstop Desiree Williams led off the inning with a single right to right field and advanced to second base on a fielder’s choice. Kansas junior pitcher Kassie Humphreys walked Texas catcher Megan Willis and hit pinch hitter MicKayla Padilla to load the bases. Designated Texas hitter Rachael Cook struck out to end the game, preserving the Kansas one-run victory.
“My hands were definitely shaking,” Humphreys said of pitching to Cook. “My teammates did a great job of being really supportive.”
Humphreys replaced Settlemier, Sunday’s starter, in the sixth inning. Settlemier, who was credited with the victory, allowed one hit and struck out four in five innings on the mound. Humphreys pitched two innings, allowed one hit, struck out four and recorded her third save of the season.
Kansas coach Tracy Bunge said she decided to replace Settlemier after the fifth inning because of Humphreys’ recent success in late-game situations.
“The bottom line is, at crunch time with the bases loaded, Kassie has been really great,” Bunge said. “She just came after those kids, got the job done and threw the ball exactly where she wanted to.”
Both pitchers benefited from strong infield defense. In the bottom of the fourth inning, senior second baseman Jessica Moppin made a leaping catch to prevent the ball from soaring into right field. An inning later, senior shortstop Destiny Frankenstein made a turn-around grab and throw to first to record the out.
“We were great on defense,” Bunge said. “Frankenstein made a couple of great plays. Moppin made a great play. It was a really good team effort.”
Kansas scored its lone run in the bottom of the first inning. With the bases loaded, freshman center fielder Stevie Crisosto was hit by a pitch, scoring Moppin, who was on third base.
The Longhorns were the highest ranked opponent the Jayhawks have defeated this season. With only six games remaining before the Big 12 Tournament, Settlemier said it provided momentum before the tournament in Oklahoma City.
“I think this win’s going to give us a ton of confidence,” Settlemier said. “We’re just going to go up from here.”
Kansas will travel to Lincoln, Neb., to take on No. 15 Nebraska Wednesday night. The first pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m.
— Edited by Hayley Travis
Softball Notes:
Before Saturday’s game, Kansas retired the jerseys of Sheila Connolly and Camille Spitaleri. Connolly was a two-time All-American outfielder and shortstop in 1983, and from 1985-1987. Spitaleri is Kansas’ only three-time All-American and led the Jayhawks to the NCAA College World Series in 1992.
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