Coppin Softball looks to make a statement this weekend

by Keith Henry

Coming into this MEAC opening weekend, Coppin State (0-16) is looking to make a statement to everyone in the conference. What could be better than winning the series against the defending conference champion and crosstown rival Morgan State Lady Bears.

Last time they played, the Lady Eagles were swept by ACC opponent Syracuse at the Coppin State Softball Complex 7-3 & 13-3 in five innings this past Wednesday.

Morgan State (7-8) split their games at George Mason on Wednesday, losing game one 5-1 in eight innings & winning game two 3-1.

Coppin State head coach Ashley Cook said about her season thus far, "We've been close a lot. Hopefully we figure out how to finish and I think we're almost there."

They have given some Power Five opponents some serious issues this season before falling short. Starting with NCAA Tournament opponent Iowa State, jumping on top 2-1 before the Cyclones came back with 9 unanswered to win it 10-2 in five innings. They also lost close ones to Big East opponents Georgetown 7-5 and Providence 4-1.

Today, they will go in with sophomore Vanessa Carrizosa in the circle. Carrizosa has kept the Lady Eagles in most of these games with some great pitching. She struck out six Orange in their game one effort this past Wednesday. 

Coach Cook says that she has been moving people around to find that right fit. This weekend will show who fits in those key roles that could perhaps spur a run to the MEAC championship. Cook has a lot of confidence in her squad and that their record doesn't show what they are at all.

Cook believes the best is yet to come for her Lady Eagles. "It's coming. So people better not doubt us," said Cook. "It's about learning how to compete and trust that you can compete and we are getting there. It's a growing game and we're growing, that's good."

Coppin is at Lois T. Murray Field this afternoon for a doubleheader vs. Morgan State. The games are at 1 & 3 pm this afternoon and Sunday at Noon.