Auburn softball lost to No. 4 Florida, 7-1, in the series finale at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium on April 19. The Tigers struggled offensively against pitcher Keagan Rothrock as the Gators secured the win and claimed the series.
The loss is significant for Auburn as it continues its Southeastern Conference season. The Tigers were unable to generate offense early and committed defensive errors that contributed to Florida’s lead.
Co-head coach Chris Malveaux said, “You could feel early on when the game was close that we tightened up both offensively and defensively. It’s almost like we changed the entire meaning of why we were out here. We turned this journey into a chore. We wanted to be intentional throughout the week of understanding and bringing that positive energy and ‘go after it’ mindset. We kind of lost that a little bit today.”
Malveaux also addressed what his team can take away from the weekend: “This weekend wasn’t all for naught. We have to use yesterday as something that’s possible the rest of the season. It was the game repaying us after all the hard work. We have to chase that every day and not let one negative thing deter us. If you want it bad enough, nothing is going to stop you. We’ve got to remember that and get back at it.”
Florida scored early with a two-run home run by Kendall Grover in the first inning and added three more runs in third inning with four hits, including two doubles. Errors by Auburn allowed two unearned runs in fifth inning, extending Florida’s lead.
Auburn did not record a hit until AnnaLea Adams singled in fourth inning; she finished with two hits for Auburn’s four total hits in the game. Freshman Ava Ratliff hit a solo home run in seventh inning for Auburn’s only run.
Four pitchers appeared for Auburn during Sunday’s game, including Ella Harrison who took her second consecutive start but suffered loss, Charley Butler who allowed only unearned runs over 2⅓ innings, along with Blayne Godfrey and Abby Herndon combining for a scoreless sixth inning.
Looking ahead, Auburn will play its final midweek contest at Troy on Wednesday before returning home next weekend for a three-game series against Ole Miss.
