FSU softball: Takeaways from Noles doubleheader sweep of Lipscomb

FSU softball (2-0) swept a doubleheader over Lipscomb Thursday night to open up the 2023 season.

The Noles won the first game 3-0 behind a complete game one-hit shutout from Kathryn Sandercock. She only threw 76 pitches, with 60 of them strikes.

The FSU offense only had five hits in 21 at-bats (.238). They left five runners on base and were only 1-8 with runners in scoring position. However, they did a good job getting the leadoff runner on, going 3 of 6.

They just need to do a better job cashing in on those scoring opportunities. The second game saw FSU take a 4-1 win after exploding for three runs late, with the score tied 1-1 going into the bottom of the sixth inning.

Newcomer Allison Royalty went four innings, allowing two hits(one home run), two walks, and three strikeouts.

Freshman Makenna Reid was lights out in relief, going three innings, and striking out six while allowing no hits or walks. The FSU offense was better, going 8 for 26 (.308). They were 4 of 10 with two outs but only 2 of 8 with runners in scoring position.

Takeaways

• Kathryn Sandercock picked up where she left off last season.
• Makenna Reid looks like she could be a special freshman.
• Allison Royalty was solid, but must find the strike zone more often, as 58 pecent of his pitchers were strikes.
• FSU offense must do better with runners in scoring position.
• FSU’s defense was stellar, with no errors in the two games.
• Michaela Edenfield was 4 of 6 with a home run, two doubles, and three RBI.
• FSU’s offense must get better overall.

The Noles will be back in action Friday at 1:30 pm against Longwood. The game will air on the ACCNX channel. If you like excitement, I encourage you to check the ladies out.