(Photo via Zina Garcia/WCSN)
Sun Devil softball is gearing up for an action-packed Littlewood Classic, featuring a challenging lineup that includes BYU, No. 16 Virginia Tech, Illinois State, Memphis and Cal State Fullerton.
During these games, the Devils have a prime opportunity to make a statement to teams from across the region. As they prepare to take on a diverse range of opponents, ASU is determined to showcase its skill, versatility, and unity, which will be key to establishing a solid base for the bulk of the season.
In the last meeting with BYU, the Cougars handed ASU a 10-5 loss. This year, The Devils have some serious new additions to the roster, specifically graduate outfielder Kelsey Hall, whose last season stats included a .385 batting average, .504 on-base percentage, .854 slugging percentage and 11 home runs, indicating one of many significant offensive upgrades. With these additions, ASU can leverage its enhanced offensive capabilities to counter BYU’s hitters in this opening game.
The doubleheader on Friday against Virginia Tech and Illinois State will test ASU’s stamina and ability to adjust quickly between two vastly different teams.
Against Virginia Tech, ASU will have to play some of its best softball. The Hokies’ solid pitching will test ASU’s hitters, requiring strategic base running and smart plays to create scoring opportunities. The Devils’ improved lineup depth will be vital in adapting to Virginia Tech’s disciplined play. Their success will likely depend on their ability to adapt at the plate and exploit any opportunities given by Virginia Tech’s defense.
Facing Illinois State, ASU will look to replicate last season’s previous dominance, where it rallied with 11 unanswered runs and showcased its power with four home runs. The game could revolve around ASU’s infield defense and how well the Sun Devils can convert play opportunities to outs, minimizing Illinois State’s scoring chances. The Redbirds will likely try to navigate ASU’s pitching strategy effectively to find success, and any gaps in the Devils’ defense could give Illinois State a chance to score.
On Saturday, the Devils will take on another doubleheader against Memphis and Cal State Fullerton.
Against Memphis, a team ASU defeated 10-0 in last year’s San Diego State season kickoff, the Sun Devils will aim to maintain their offensive momentum from the previous matchup. The Devils must again challenge Memphis’s pitching to claim a win. This game will emphasize the tactical battle, with ASU’s coaching staff needing to make smart decisions on pitching and batting orders to determine the game’s momentum. After their colossal defeat, Memphis will likely keep ASU’s hitters in check and try to limit the Devils’ scoring runs early.
Versus Cal State Fullerton, ASU has a chance to showcase the depth of its new team since their last meeting in 2022. Historically, the two teams go way back, and ASU’s record when playing the Titans stands at 27-26 losses. This matchup will highlight ASU’s adaptability and resilience, particularly in the later innings. Cal State Fullerton’s competitive spirit will test the Devils’ ability to execute under pressure, making consistent offensive and defensive performance crucial for a victory.
This series of games from Thursday to Saturday at the Littlewood Classic presents a tough challenge for ASU that will test the Sun Devils’ strategic gameplay. With the Devils’ versatility and the impact of fresh faces, transfers, and returning talents, the team will aim to navigate this competitive lineup successfully.
