LSU Softball defeats the Akron Zips 8-0 to kick off its NCAA Regional play.

The Tigers set the tone early in this game.

LSU jumped out to an early 3-0 lead and never looked back. The Tigers’ impressive showing at bat along with their defense, made it a difficult day for the Zips.

LSU Softball Head Coach Beth Torina talked about her team wanting to set the tone to begin the tournament and that this game was a great way to do so.

“[We] just wanted to set a tone for this tournament,” Coach said. “I think we fielded a million questions about how it’s gone for us in the past. I think we just wanted to make sure we had a good, solid start, put it under our belt and set the temperature for the rest of the weekend.”

Numerous players for the Tigers had great games.

Junior Kylee Edwards was exceptional. Edwards ended the game finishing 2-4 at bat, with two runs and three RBIs.

Another player who played well was another junior, Sierra Daniel, who finished 3-4 at bat, bringing in two runs and two doubles.

Right fielder Alix Franklin did not have the best performance at bat, but recorded the match’s lone home run.

However, one player deserves much praise, and that’s sophomore pitcher Jayden Heavener, who allowed the Zips only three hits and recorded 11 strikeouts.

Heavener was asked about her performance in the post-game press conference.

“After the first inning, I was like, ‘I’m not going to tell myself too much, but I’m going to get a lot of strikeouts,’” Heavener said. “I get frustrated with myself spots-wise, but I know my best stuff is still working and I have defense behind me.”

The Tigers face the Virginia Tech Hokies in their next game in the NCAA Tournament. The Hokies are not an easy team to match up against, as they ranked among the top five in the country in batting average.

The two teams meet Saturday with the first pitch scheduled for 12 p.m.