Mickey Dean reveals why Auburn is struggling offensively

For the second game in a row, Auburn is facing elimination from the NCAA Tournament. Head coach Mickey Dean always had a tough challenge coming out of the Tallahassee Regional but wants to stay alive on Saturday night against UCF. Florida State is waiting on the other side with a spot in the Super Regionals on the line.

However, the Tigers have really struggled in the batter’s box. UCF pitcher Sarah Willis has allowed just two hits through three innings, walking three, and striking out too. Auburn has threatened at times but not broken through quite yet.

Dean says Willis’ changeup is what’s giving his players the most issues right now. The pitch has maybe gotten in their heads, proving to be a reason why Auburn is 0-4 with runners in scoring position.

“The changeup,” Dean said during an in-game interview with ESPN. “She can throw it at any time. I think it gets in the hitter’s heads. Sometimes, you let some pitches go by you that you would have swung at because you’re thinking changeup.”

The fix is a simple one in Dean’s eyes. Continuing to go up there with confidence and working a few counts. Dean wants to get the pitch count up for Willis and force UCF into some tough situations.

“Right now, it’s just going up there and having good at-bats,” Dean said. “Good, quality at-bats and make her work.”

Auburn is not having too bad of a showing in the circle either. Maddie Penta is performing like her normal self, giving up just one hit and one walk through three innings. For the most part, UCF has been shut down and stayed quiet offensively.

Dean has witnessed a lot of special moments from Penta and could be witnessing another one.

“She’s had a really good three or four innings,” Dean said. “I don’t know how far along we are in this game. She’s been special to work with. Hopefully, we can keep moving it around and see what we can do here tonight.”

Everyone in the Auburn dugout will be hoping Penta can continue her great performance while the bats continue to look for life. The program has not made it to a Super Regional since 2017, hoping to end a long drought.

The first step to advancing is staying alive and seeing another day by beating UCF. An important few innings are upcoming from JoAnne Graf Field.