UCLA vs. Tennessee Softball: A History and WCWS Rematch Preview
The Tennessee Lady Vols (46-16) are set for a compelling rematch against the UCLA Bruins in their second elimination game of the Women's College World Series (WCWS). This pivotal game is scheduled for Saturday, June 1 at 3 p.m. ET, and will be broadcast on ABC. The Bruins, after a 3-1 defeat to No. 12 seed Texas Tech, find themselves in the same precarious position in the loser's bracket. Tennessee, buoyed by an 11-3 run-rule victory over No. 3 seed Florida, seeks to continue their momentum. This article delves into the history between these two softball powerhouses, examines their recent encounter, and previews their upcoming WCWS showdown.
How UCLA Beat Tennessee in February
The two teams faced off earlier this year on February 21, in a game that provided valuable lessons for both sides. Tennessee initially surged ahead, establishing a 3-0 lead in the first inning. Their ace pitcher, Karlyn Pickens, maintained this lead until the fifth inning. However, the Bruins mounted a comeback after Pickens allowed a leadoff single, followed by a walk and another single to load the bases.
A crucial decision by Tennessee coach Karen Weekly to replace Pickens with sophomore Sage Mardjetko proved to be a turning point. Mardjetko conceded a run, and then Jordan Woolery hit a three-run home run, giving UCLA a 4-3 lead. Reflecting on this decision, Weekly admitted regretting removing Pickens from the game, acknowledging Pickens's confidence in resolving jams she creates herself.
UCLA's Offensive Struggles Against Texas Tech
In their recent game against Texas Tech, UCLA's offense struggled to find its rhythm against pitcher NiJaree Canady. Canady, who boasts a nation-leading 0.86 ERA, limited the Bruins to just four hits and struck out seven while walking two. The sole run for UCLA came from a solo home run by Kaniya Bragg in the fifth inning. The Bruins left five runners on base, highlighting their difficulty in capitalizing on opportunities.
This performance could be an encouraging sign for Tennessee, as they prepare to start Pickens, who will have had nearly two full days of rest. Pickens, who started against Florida, was pulled after the first inning once UT took a 7-0 lead.
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Karlyn Pickens: Ready for the Rematch
Pickens's performance in the initial matchup against UCLA was not up to her usual standards, as she recorded only one strikeout, one walk, and allowed four hits. However, she has been in stellar form throughout the NCAA tournament, amassing 59 strikeouts in 37⅓ innings while allowing only 23 hits. Her recent dominance suggests she is well-prepared for the rematch.
UCLA's All-American Infield
Despite their offensive struggles against Texas Tech, UCLA boasts a formidable infield, with three players named NFCA All-Americans this season. Third baseman Jordan Woolery and first baseman Megan Grant earned first-team honors, while second baseman Savannah Pola was named to the third team.
Pola leads UCLA with a .439 batting average, closely followed by Woolery at .418. Woolery also leads the team with 86 RBIs and 23 home runs, including a walk-off two-run homer that forced Game 3 of the super regional at South Carolina. Grant has contributed 79 RBIs and a team-high 25 home runs, while Pola leads the team with 73 runs scored and 20 doubles.
Tennessee vs. UCLA: Series History
The historical record between Tennessee and UCLA favors the Bruins, with a 10-4 advantage. The Lady Vols have lost their last four encounters with UCLA, with three of those losses being decided by two runs or less. While the teams played in 2024 and 2022, their previous matchup was in 2013. In the WCWS, Tennessee holds a 1-1 record against UCLA, with a 3-1 loss in 2005 and a 4-3 victory in 2006.
Prediction
Tennessee 5, UCLA 2: The Lady Vols have demonstrated consistent improvement throughout the NCAA tournament, positioning them as strong contenders to avenge their earlier loss to UCLA. The Bruins may face similar challenges against Pickens as they did against Canady, and Tennessee's offensive momentum is expected to continue.
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Broadcast Information
The game will be held at Devon Park in Oklahoma City.
- TV Channel: ABC
- Live stream: Fubo (free trial), ESPN app
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tags: #ucla #vs #tennessee #softball #history
