There are many reasons for the LSU softball’s team turnaround and surge up the Southeastern Conference standings. An offensive explosion, consistent hitting and improved pitching have all led to the Tigers’ success.
But nothing is more obvious than the Tigers’ recent success away from Tiger Park. And with the postseason looming, the refined road play will be more vital than ever.
“I think we play the game the same no matter what field we are at,” said coach Beth Torina. “We approach every game the same and make sure we are prepared and ready to give our best effort no matter where we are playing the game at.”
No. 25 LSU (31-20, 11-10 SEC) will look to continue its recent triumphs away from home and better its postseason hopes when it plays Southeastern Louisiana (19-25, 10-14 Southland Conference) tonight at North Oak Park in Hammond.
After a 1-7 road stretch, the resurgent Tigers have won seven of their last nine on the road, including a 5-1 mark against SEC opponents. Torina credited discipline and more experience as the season has gone along as reasons behind recent success.
This will be the fourth time LSU plays an in-state team on the road, with victories against Nicholls State, UL-Monroe and Northwestern St. already under its belt. Torina said the success all around the state gives the team more attention in regard to recruiting.
Another reason for the Tigers’ turnaround is a far easier schedule down the stretch. While LSU faced softball titans such as Alabama and Oklahoma earlier in the season, the schedule has transitioned to lowly SEC teams like Ole Miss and Mississippi State.
Southeastern is headed toward its third season under .500 in the last four years and enters the game after a home series loss to McNeese St. The Lions main problem is hitting, with only one player batting more than .300 and no players with 10 or more home runs.
Sophomore pitcher Taylor Bishop is still the leader of Southeastern, but she had dropped off after a stellar freshman campaign. Her earned run average has increased from 2.15 to 3.74, and she currently leads the team in home runs allowed.
But LSU is not looking past this game, especially with previous mid-week losses to Hofstra and McNeese St.. Torina said the only thing the team should be concerned with is whoever comes next on its schedule.
“We don’t take any game differently from any other game on our schedule,” Torina said. “Every game on our schedule is important, and we need to take that mentality when we take the field Wednesday in Hammond.”