Syracuse’s Magic Runs Out in ACC Quarterfinals
By Anthony Vasquez | CitrusTV Softball Beat Reporter
After a magical shutout win against Louisville yesterday, Syracuse’s late season magic finally ran out in the ACC Quarterfinals against Virginia Tech.
The Hokies scored in the bottom of the third and fourth to win it 2-1. Despite the loss, the swinging Orange fought valiantly until the end. Neli Casares-Maher hit a homer in the first inning of what would ultimately be her final game with S.U.
After that, the bats weren’t done yet as the ‘Cuse amassed seven hits – two more than Virginia Tech. Even though there was chances galore, the offense just couldn’t get that one big hit to break things open against ACC pitcher of the year Keely Rochard.
Even though she didn’t have her best stuff today, the veteran ace battled her way through en route to her 23rd win of the season. Rochard, the conference’s strikeout queen, was fighting control issues throughout but was able to muscle her way through for another complete game performance.
Meanwhile, Syracuse’s staff was just as good if not better than the Va Tech ace. Lindsey Hendrix was cruising until she let up a game tying homer in the third. She ended the day giving up two hits and that home run through 2.2 innings of work.
After throwing six shutout innings against Louisville, Ariana Adams came in and gave up the eventual game-winning round tripper in the fourth to Bre Peck. Adams ends her career by tossing 3.1 innings and surrendering just two hits.
The two hurlers combined to strikeout just three hitters meaning it was their control and ability to throw off a hitter’s timing that was showcased today.
It certainly was a thrilling season for S.U. Softball, especially in the final two weeks of the season. With seniors Neli Casares-Maher, Carli Campbell, Ariana Adams, and Paris Woods all departing the Orange are faced with four new holes to fill next season.
Thankfully, they have a lot of talent hungry to return and build off of an unprecedented, challenging, and exciting season.
