UF Softball: Gators Fall in Exhibition Against USA Softball

Courtesy of University Athletic Association

BY HERB BROOKS

Tonight’s exhibition was the second all-time meeting between the two programs

The Florida softball program hosted the world’s No. 1-ranked USA Softball Women’s National Team in an exhibition game Tuesday evening at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium. Team USA picked up a 4-0 decision in what was the second homecoming of future Olympians and Gator Greats Michelle Moultrie, Aubree Munro, and Kelsey Stewart.

The Gators’ pitching staff turned in solid outings as the group held the Red, White, and Blue to just five hits throughout the contest. A pair of doubles by Amanda Chidester and Ali Aguilar were the deciding factor in the game.

In the top of the 4^th inning, Chidester gave Team USA a 1-0 lead on a high chopper that grazed off the top of Charla Echols’ glove as she was jumping into the air, while Aguilar notched a bases-clearing 3-RBI double off the wall in left center field to extend the lead to 4-0 in the 5^th.

The Gators’ offense once again went toe-to-toe with one of the world’s best pitchers in Cat Osterman. Osterman pitched 5.2 innings, similar to last year’s outing against Monica Abbott, and the Gators were able to pick up four hits and three walks.

Florida put multiple base runners on against Osterman in the 3^rd, 4^th, and 6^th innings, with Cheyenne Lindsey (1-for-4), Charla Echols (1-for-3), Julia Cottrill (1-for-2), and Kendyl Lindaman (1-for-3) picking up hits. Cottrill, Avery Goelz, and Bryn Thomas also earned free passes during the contest.

In the circle, Rylee Trlicek received the start and held the Team USA bats in check for 1.2 innings of work. The Hallettsville, Texas native didn’t allow a hit, struck out one batter, and issued only one walk during her appearance.

Elizabeth Hightower pitched 2.2 innings, Natalie Lugo pitched 1.0 inning, Katie Chronister notched 1.2 innings, and freshman left-hander Haley Pittman saw her first action as a Gator in the circle.

The Gators return to regular season action Wednesday at 7 p.m. against North Dakota with the action set to air on the SEC Network.