The Texas Longhorns demonstrated their offensive strength with a commanding 16–4 run-rule victory over the Michigan Wolverines in just five innings during the Austin Regional at Red & Charline McCombs Field on Saturday. This victory showcased the Longhorns’ explosive batting, as they hit six home runs, tying the NCAA Softball Tournament record, and solidified their position in the regional final set for Sunday.
Texas head coach Mike White emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and resilience going into the next game. “We can’t carry any runs over to tomorrow’s game, so it’s going to be a fresh start… We have to stay grounded, stay focused and not get too far ahead of ourselves,” he stated, highlighting the need for quality at-bats, which were evident throughout the game.
The Longhorns had a strong showing at the plate, with five players recording multi-hit performances. Sophomore shortstop Katie Stewart led the charge, delivering a stellar 3-for-3 showing that included two home runs. Junior catcher Reese Atwood and graduate first baseman Joley Mitchell each contributed significantly, driving in four runs apiece.
The offensive assault began after Michigan’s Lily Vallimont provided an early lead with an RBI in the first inning. However, Stewart quickly evened the score with a solo home run in the second inning. Texas gained momentum in the third, culminating with a three-run homer from Atwood and Stewart’s second homer, pushing the Longhorns ahead 5–1.
Despite a two-run homer from Michigan’s Janisa Conway in the third, Texas responded decisively in the fourth inning, scoring nine runs. Highlights included Mitchell’s grand slam and additional home runs from junior Kaydee Bennett and junior Leighann Goode, stretching Texas’ lead to 14–3.
Michigan added another run in the fourth with an RBI from Maddie Ramey, but Texas solidified its victory with two more runs in the fifth, resulting in a 16-run display. Sophomore right-hander Teagan Kavan contributed to the victory, achieving her 22nd win of the season and striking out seven batters over 3.1 innings.
Atwood pointed out the advantages of their quick victory, noting that it would allow the team to conserve energy for their upcoming match, emphasizing the importance of resting their pitchers and approaching the next game with determination.
Texas is now set to face the winner of the elimination game between Michigan and UCF, looking to leverage their momentum and maintain their strong performance in the tournament. As they prepare, the Longhorns will focus on continuing their hitting prowess and strong pitching depth, aiming for success in the next round of play.