Auburn lost Carosone and Jada Rhodes who I think hit two home runs off of Paige last year. That's about 33 home runs. But, they only hit about ten fewer than we did. Yet, their team BA was only around 286. Martin and Carlson are a strong 1-2 punch in pitching. Martin went against us last year and this year. Carlson is the ace. Neither is a K artist. But, their ERA is only about 1.80 as a team. Carlson is around 1.22,
On national boards, Auburn fans seem cautious. I would be cautious as either an OU or Auburn fan.
Expert analysis.
I thought in the Regional opener, that the advantage that NDSU had in scout preparation, was a big factor in winning. I'd be shocked if some insights they used didn't come from ISU's HC. She was on the staff there last year.
That shouldn't be the case this weekend. In a backward's way, this is Mano e Mano. Perhaps Femano e Femano. Both schools know each other really well. Auburn will have some insights into Paige 2, because they've seen her a bit in the SEC before this season, though I believe she's a different pitcher, especially in short stints. Interestingly, Auburn didn't play Mizzou last season and the year before, Paige only pitched in game three of the series, giving up four runs in less than four innings and I believe took the loss. Nowadays, getting nine outs or less, she can maintain 72 pretty well on her most rapid pitches and has added a curveball.
Not surprisingly, each will be the other's top post season opponent so far.
Total focus on each other and a lot of tape to be watched between now and Friday. Home field really helps with review after the series begins.
They'll know what are the strengths and weaknesses of OUr starters and we will know the same about theirs. It's going to be about execution and breaks.
Another big advantage for them will be an addition day of rest, and that OU's staff had to throw 39 innings in the regional. Auburn only threw 21. And there were only nine for their innings that were really pressured innings. OU really only had a break in the last three or four of the second NDSU game. There could be a little residual effect involved.
But I wonder if OU's team gelled in having to win four straight. I guess we'll see.
