No. 4 Gators Softball Takes On Auburn

The Gators softball team suffered a devastating loss to UCF on Wednesday, being shut out 4-0.

Now, Florida has a chance to rebound as the Gators slide back into SEC play with a series against Auburn.

A Look At Auburn

Auburn has a respectable overall record, sitting at 22-11 on the season. However, there’s one glaring issue: the team is 0-9 in conference play. 

Going by the numbers, Auburn sits in the middle of the pack in most statistics. The Tigers are 87th in the nation in RBI per game with 4.91. Meanwhile, their performance in the circle has often left much to be desired, with a team ERA of 4.16.

However, that doesn’t mean that they still can’t be a threat. 

Freshman AnnaLea Adams has been a force in the batter’s box this season, hitting .468 with six homers. 

https://twitter.com/AuburnSoftball/status/1905037057342185668

In the circle, SJ Geurin is Auburn’s undisputed ace, sitting at 15-5 on the season with a 2.56 ERA.

Gators To Watch

Florida (30-5, 3-3 SEC) struggled offensively against UCF, not generating any momentum for most of the game. This lack of power in the box is quite unfamiliar for the Gators this season.

Since the Gators entered conference play, their production has slowed considerably. That’s to be expected, as SEC teams are stronger, faster, and more competitive; but at times, it has leaked over into the team’s performance against non-ranked teams. In the circle, Keagan Rothrock‘s injury has limited the depth of the pitching staff, which has caused some problems for the team. 

Even though Florida is going through a slump, the team is still one of the best in the nation.

Freshman Katelynn Oxley has stepped up in Rothrock’s absence and has handled her newfound role with poise.

In the batter’s box, Kendra Falby remains the team’s best hitter, batting .463. She has gotten on base every game this season and was among the few players to record a hit against UCF. Meanwhile, Mia Williams has been on a heater, going 2-for-2 against UNF.

Up Next

The Gators open the series on Friday at 7 p.m. in Auburn.

The game will be broadcast on SEC Network+.