My observations of this years full WCWS has been one of glaring coaching and base running mistakes costing teams best opportunities to comeback to win. Game 1 of this Ok-FSU series proved the point Gasso screwed up a BASIC coaching principle in sending a running home while losing 8-4 in the 6th for the second out. The tying run is in the on-deck circle so sending the runner is so unbelievably dumb, it’s confounding. The fact Michelle Smith nor Jessica Mendoza highlighted that huge gaff was also highly frustrating. I wouldn’t expect Beth Mowins to even remotely understand that context. I shouldn’t be that surprised as Alabama also has some huge gaffs on the bases and nothing was said.
While I want to like Gasso, some of her comments leave me perplexed and thinks she’s feeling entitled. Yes, it’s unfortunate that rain delays caused UCLA-Oklahoma to run late and the FSU-OSU game to last until 2:20 AM (Central time) but that’s what happens in tournament play when the next days schedule demands winners to play. It happens all the time in travel baseball and softball and the players love it!
Yes the COVID testing the next morning was unfortunate but Loni was not the least bit irritated and rolled with the punches, yet Gasso wants to sound off? Gasso makes the most money in WCSB and needs to behave as the leader and ambassador she’s paid to be. I was with her on the lack of committee transparency but this bit of whining is a “bridge too far” for me.
The other issue that was unfortunate but necessary was the postponement of both 2nd games Sunday night that caused today’s title game at 3 PM. Hey, weather happens and roll with the punches. So everyone please Stop complaining.
The Oklahoma offense is impressive but this is not the best team ever as was being touted. The fact #10 seed FSU is one game away from the title leads credence to
@SimpleDawg comments that Loni may be the best “coach” and Gasso the best recruiter. Tune in at 3 PM to see who wins.