Alabama Softball had its season come to an end as the Crimson Tide dropped the best of three Super Regional series to Washington, two games to none.
Alabama softball needed to win Saturday’s game to stay alive in the WCWS hunt, but just couldn’t get anything going against a competitive and talented Washington team. Washington will now advance to the WCWS, where several other SEC teams will be competing for the championship title. If there is one thing Alabama can say after this season, Washington will have a tough time keeping the SEC teams down.
For Alabama, as they head back home empty handed, eyes are now looking towards the next season in 2019. Alabama softball surely has a lot more to look forward to next year.
Looking Ahead
With the 2018 campaign over, what do fans have to look forward to next year?
It certainly is disappointing that Alabama couldn’t at least get to Oklahoma City. As well as they were playing down the stretch, you had some hope that the seniors on this team could have another shot at a title. They have a lot to be proud of, however, as they look back on their careers at Alabama.
As far as who will be leaving, it will be quite a lot of talent. Alexis Osorio will be gone, with her amazing career in tow. While she didn’t have a fantastic 2018, she has had an amazing career in the circle and she is to be commended. Power hitter Peyton Grantham and infielder Demi Turner will also be departing, along with Rachel Bobo and Sydney Booker. That’s a lot of batting power gone.
Despite the losses, Alabama still has some young talent up and coming. Elissa Brown will return for her junior year next year. KB Sides and Kaylee Tow, who had an excellent freshmen seasons, will be returning with more experience. Gabby Callaway and Bailey Hemphill will return as well, supporting the bulk of the batting lineup. Caroline Hardy and Reagan Dykes will have their senior seasons next year.
In the circle, Courtney Gettins will have her senior year next year and will likely have to step up as the ace next year. Freshman Madison Preston, who is Alabama’s lefty, will see more time next year and will help Alabama add a wrinkle to its pitching.
There have been Twitter whispers from fans calling for Patrick Murphy to step down. Fans should not expect that to happen. This was a tough season, but that had a lot to do with the schedule. Patrick Murphy will continue to be the Alabama softball coach. Even if Murphy was in any danger of losing his job, there isn’t anyone out there that could do a better job.
Next: Super Regionals: Alabama Softball drops game one to Washington 3-2
We hope to see a better season next year. We’ll have to wait til next February to find out. Every season brings promise and Alabama softball will always strive for championships.