The USSSA Pride will begin another series tonight, this time in a rematch at home against Team Canada. The Pride opened the season in Illinois against Team Canada where they finished the four-game series with one win. Playing with just 13 players, depth could have played a factor. However, the recent signings of players, such as Women’s College World Series standout, Odicci Alexander as well as Haley Cruse, Alyssa Palomino-Cardoza, and Jessie Harper have added variety on the field and in the lineup.
USSSA Pride Head Coach Roman Foore, believes the four rookies are adjusting well to playing at the next level. “They have adapted really well. They have brought energy and competed since the moment they walked in,” said Foore. “They have been put in some tough situations against the best of the best and have gotten acclimated really quickly.”
Of the four, one player to keep an eye on will be Odicci Alexander. Last series, she made her professional start in Game 3 of the series, fresh off her WCWS run with James Madison University, striking out eight batters in six innings pitched. Now that she has gotten her first start on the mound under her belt at the pro level, look for her to really show her skills in this series.
When Team Canada takes the field tonight, it will be with a few familiar faces in Danielle Lawrie, Jennifer (Jen) Salling, and Lonni Alameda. Lawrie played for the Pride from 2011 to 2013, Salling from 2010 to 2014. Meanwhile, Lonni Alameda led the helm as head coach in the 2016 and 2017 seasons. Foore gave the five-time ACC Coach of the Year high praise saying, “Her willingness to learn, to adapt, to try different things is huge and makes her who she is. Her relationships within the team and the organization are great for the culture of Team Canada. She has seen the game at every level and knows the game extremely well.”
The Pride begin their series against Team Canada tonight at 7 PM with their first themed game of the season, Father/Daughter night. Purchase tickets to the game here. If you are unable to join us at the park, watch live here.