Only piece we are missing is a dominant ace pitcher. We had two really good ones right when covid hit (Kleist/Ellyson), 2020, I believe. That was very unlucky. We’ve had some really good ace pitchers (Landry, Schorman) since but there’s a level of elite that can shut down the top 20 teams we meet in the regionals and it’s not easy to find those pitchers.
While I think some fans still think there’s a Kyla Hall out there, most realize those days are long gone. It’s a different game, and the hitters are too good.
But I do believe UL has to upgrade if we’re thinking WCWS. I think our top 2 pitchers are very good (NCAA Regional good, which is saying something).
Like others have said, there’s a consistent middle of the lineup threat missing. Many programs may think they are 1-2 players away from being a legit WCWS threat. But pretty clear Cajuns are truly in that category.
it’s not the same game as it was when we made more appearances at the CWS because conferences like the SEC and ACC have substantially stepped up their game and resources allocated to Softball in the past 15 years or so thus the competition for the few elite pitchers thst are out there is much greater
I still believe we have failed to advance of recent in more instances because of the lack of offense and in some instances defense than because of pitching
JMO
Allred wasn't exactly setting the world on fire when she decided to take a red shirt year. Maybe her oblique injury had something to do with her lack of offense this past season. Maybe not. She definitely needs to return to her freshman form for UL to have a successful run next season.
Her returning does bring up an interesting dilemma for Glasco. Where does he move Roe? Does he keep Credeur at DH? Somebody is going to be the odd man out next year between Roe, Credeur, Allred, Langeliers, Ellestad & Vasquez. If Stutes has a hot bat in the fall, she will be in the mix also.
Her injury did contribute to her start. I agree if she could repeat her freshman numbers it would be a big help. I know Lauren personally, don't bet against her. She will be ready to play in 2025. I also agree Stutes could factor in. Nobody will be the odd man out. Stay Tuned.
Hopefully there are a lot of difficult decisions because so many players are playing well. Vasquez is the key, in my opinion. If she can keep getting better on offense, her defense is so good it is a huge win-win. However, if her offense slips, that causes even more difficult decisions.
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