Arkansas softball faces Florida in Gainesville

FAYETTEVILLE – The University of Arkansas softball team travels to Gainesville, Fla., taking on the Florida Gators Friday and Saturday in a three-game Southeastern Conference series. The doubleheader begins at 3 p.m. Friday, and Saturday’s first pitch is at 11 a.m. The Lady Razorbacks look to continue their winning ways this weekend and get back into the race for SEC tournament rights at the end of season. The top eight teams make it to the tournament. “I thought we played well in Florida last year and I’m pleased with the momentum and confidence we’re taking down there,” said head coach Jamie Pinkerton. “If we can continue to play like we’re playing, then we have a good shot of getting right back in it. We have two teams ahead of us (in the SEC standings), but there is plenty of time left.” The Lady’Backs (16-31, 3-10 SEC) enter the series winning four out of the last five games. Arkansas swept Kentucky this past weekend and split a doubleheader with Kansas Tuesday. Arkansas dropped the first game 4-2, but jumped out to a five-run lead after two innings in game two and won 6-1. The 23rd-ranked Gator softball team (30-16, 6-8 SEC) swept a doubleheader against in-state rival Florida State on Wednesday after losing an SEC series to Ole Miss this past weekend. Florida took the first game against FSU, 5-1, and came from behind to win game two 4-3. Florida leads Arkansas all-time 18-10, and won last year’s series in a 10-inning rubber game on Sunday. Coach Pinkerton said pitching is a major factor to winning this weekend’s series. “Katy Henry is the key,” he said. “She was masterful against Kansas and if she and Miranda and Teighynne can throw well, then we have a good shot this weekend.” For more information, please log on to LADYBACKS.COM.