Taylor, Thomas making impact for Team USA softball
After only a handful of games at this year’s World Cup of Softball, a pair of Tigers are making their presence felt for Team USA.
Former Missouri centerfielder Rhea Taylor hit a two-run triple and scored two runs in the team’s 7-2 victory against the Czech Republic. Taylor sparked the U.S. offense again with a run scored after laying down a bunt single and stealing second base against Australia. Team USA would go on to win the game 5-2.
Tiger ace and National Player of the Year runner-up Chelsea Thomas earned a save in each of the team’s first two contests, pitching two scoreless innings and striking out the final three batters on three pitches each to close out the Czech Republic. In her following appearance, Thomas struck out Australia’s Chelsea Forkin, the only batter she faced, to clinch Team USA’s victory.
On Saturday, Thomas started Team USA’s game against Canada and gave up three earned runs on five hits in three innings pitched. The junior Tiger struck out two batters but ultimately earned the loss as Canada defeated the U.S. 4-3. Taylor batted in the lead-off spot for the Americans but went hitless with one strikeout in four at bats.
Team USA finishes off the second half of its Saturday doubleheader when it goes up against Japan at 8 p.m. CT on ESPN2.