Talented Pitching and Timely Hitting Leading USF Softball

Lindsey Richardson is just one player leading to the fast start for USF in 2012 (Picture: USF Oracle)

The USF Bulls came into the 2012 season expecting big things after a great 2011 season that came up just a bit short of the NCAA tournament.  The Bulls are off to a quick 6-1 start on the year, doing it with strong pitching and timely hitting to come away with big wins. 

The pitching staff is loaded with talented arms, led by sophomore left hander Sara Nevins, but it is junior Lindsey Richardson who is shinning brightest right now.  She finished the 2011 season with a 10-6 record and a 2.85 ERA, a strong year, but at the pace she is at now, she could blow those numbers away.  She is already off to a 4-0 record on the season (5 starts) pitching 20.1 innings, allowing 13 hits, giving up just 4 walks and striking out 25 batters (holding opponents to a .176 ERA).  Richardson is simply dealing right, throwing heat and helping the Bulls motor through innings quickly, but she is not alone on the mound.  Freshman Sam Greiner, who started the season opener, is 1-0 with 1 save on the season (5 appearances).  She has worked 12.1 innings, allowing 8 hits, 4 walks, and has already struck out 19 batters.  With her going, Richardson having a monster start and Nevins and Bowles ready to deal, the Bulls are simply dominating on the mound. 

While the pitching staff is dealing, the offense is coming through with clutch hits.  Stars like Gina Kafalas, Kourtney Salvarola, and Janine Richardson are picking up where they left off in 2011, slapping hits all over the place.  Newcomers are also getting on track as well.  Kenshyra Jackson is getting plenty of time in the starting lineup and newcomer Jessica Mouse, after playing last year at LSU, is having a great start to her USF career.  She is hitting .438 to start the season (7 of 16) with 1 double, has driven in 6 runs, walking 5 times, and has stolen 3 bases as well.  She is bringing a vast wealth of experience and is helping lead the team both at the plate and at 3rd base as well. 

The Bulls still have a long road to travel, but getting off to a 6-1 start is a great way to start down the journey as they try to reach the NCAA tournament.