KSU softball takes on Ball State after extended break
April 21, 2011
Kent State vs. Ball State
At Ball State
April 22
1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
The Kent State softball team will travel to Muncie, Ind. to take on Ball State in an afternoon double-header after inclement weather forced cancellations of the last two games.
With more than a week off since their last game, a double-header loss to Penn State, the Flashes (16-21, 6-2 Mid-American Conference) will look to continue their strong showing in the MAC against the Cardinals (27-17, 7-3 MAC).
At this point in the season, the Cardinals are an undefeated 3-0 at home while the Flashes are 9-9 on the road.
Behind freshman Jennifer Gilbert’s team-leading 40 RBIs and eight homeruns, the Cardinals bring to the table an explosive offense and an early MAC schedule test.
The Flashes’ pitching has been struggling lately, and that pitching will need to improve if Kent State wants to silence the bats of the Cardinals.
The Flashes have an ERA of 0.98 against MAC opponents with most of their struggles coming against non-conference foes.
Senior Jessica Carmichael continues to lead the team on offense as her nine homeruns and 33 RBIs lead the team.
Freshman Lauren McNeil has been a solid contributor in the Flashes’ pitching rotation this season, but has lacked run support with her 4-9 record. McNeil has a team-best ERA of 3.81.
The key to the Flashes’ success has been getting leads early. When leading after four innings, the Flashes are 13-5 on the year.
The games are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Contact Matt Lofgren at [email protected].