With the pitching staff ready to go, the Lions will look to pull out some big victories this weekend against some unfamiliar opponents. Bethune Cookman and Florida Atlantic have both met the Lions before, but it will be the first meeting for Columbia.
Last weekend, the Lions faced several tough opponents in Palm Springs, including three ranked squads. This weekend will offer the opportunity for the team to get that bad taste out of its mouth and break its losing streak.
"We want to get back from some of those losses. I mean, five in a row is a big deal," junior Ashley Esparza said. "We'll play not as good competition, but they are still good, so it'll be important for our team to go out there with some confidence."
In order to rebound, the Lions will have to play as a more cohesive unit, Esparza said. Last weekend, either the defense or offense showed up to each of the games, not both. The team just couldn't "get it all together."
Esparza, one of the Lions' veteran pitchers, was on limited innings last weekend after experiencing some soreness in her bicep. She was able to rest the injury and feels comfortable with going full force this weekend.
Yet another setback for the pitching staff came after freshman Jackie Hill broke her throwing hand while at the plate. The extent of Hill's injury has not been specified yet, but she is considered week-to-week, according to head coach Robin Petrini.
Junior Jenn Reynolds, will combine with Esparza and freshman Kimi Wong for the pitching duties this weekend.
"Ashley is looking to be ready full go," Petrini said. "JR will be fine going into this weekend. Kimi got some experience, and hopefully we'll get Jackie back soon."
Besides a test for the slightly modified pitching staff, this weekend will provide a chance to play in good conditions and in the same time zone, which is considered a huge positive among the players.
This weekend will be mark the halfway mark of the tournament season for the Lions. The team travels far, but the benefits include nice weather, a trip home, and preparation for Big Ten play.
This weekend, it is Hollywood, Fla., native Jen Acunto's turn to play close to home.
"[The tournament season] is good, because a lot of people get to go home," Esparza said. "This weekend we're going to Jen Acunto's home, and last weekend was mine. Its nice, but Big Ten is what we play for."
