Motivation
No. 20 Arizona softball secured its second consecutive run-rule victory against Houston, winning 8-0 in five innings behind Rylie Holders shutout and a dominant offensive performance.
The No. 20 Arizona softball team hosted Houston in its second matchup of the Big 12 series, securing an 8-0 victory in five innings at Hillenbrand Stadium.
Holder Leads Arizona’s Defensive Performance
Rylie Holder, pitcher for the Wildcats, tied her career high of five strikeouts while pitching a shutout, allowing only three hits throughout the game.
Pitching and fielding worked together for the Wildcats, as Serenity Trice contributed to two double plays and ended the game with a groundout.
Holder spoke on the importance of fielding as a pitcher.
“As a ground-ball pitcher, it’s the best feeling, just knowing that if someone gets on by a walk or a hit, we’re going to turn it into a double play,” Holder said. “I want to say that it’s almost a given right now.”
Shockey Leads the Offensive Effort
Regan Shockey led Arizona offensively, going three-for-three at the plate.
Shockey spoke about the team’s identity heading into senior night.
“It’s just Arizona softball, it’s a tradition,” Shockey said. “Our offense being smothering, our defense being smothering, being tough, being consistent, I just think that’s Arizona softball.”
Sydney Stewart drew walks in all three of her plate appearances.
Assistant coach Lauren Lappin spoke about Stewart’s impact on the team.
“She’s a huge weapon,” Lappin said. “She’s earned that kind of respect because she’s been so consistent with how dominant she can be and how much she can affect the game with one swing.”
Wildcats Prepare for Senior Day
With the victory, the Wildcats improved to 33-13 overall and 14-6 in Big 12 play.
Arizona’s next matchup is scheduled for Sunday at noon, when the Wildcats will celebrate Senior Day.