Payton Dixon tosses her eighth career complete game.
TAMPA, Feb. 9, 2024 – Sophomore pitcher Payton Dixon (Smyrna, Del.) tossed a complete game shutout in the University of South Florida (3-0) win over the Michigan Wolverine (1-1) on Friday afternoon. The Bulls won with a score of 1-0.
This is the first time since 2008 that South Florida has shut out its first three opponents to open the season. In 2008, they shut out Illinois, Memphis, and Bethune-Cookman.
Olivia Elliott (Tampa) hit South Florida’s first triple of the season to bring Rian Eigenmann (Millville, N.J.) across the plate in the bottom of the fifth. With two outs, Eigenmann singled down the left field line and then stole second to put herself in scoring position.
The Bulls and Wolverines started the game in a pitcher’s duel, only allowing two total hits through the first four innings.
Michigan had a chance to score in the sixth inning with a runner on third, but a groundout to Tieley Vaughn (Wesley Chapel) ended the inning.
South Florida is now 13 wins from reaching 1,500 in program history, while head coach Ken Eriksen is 14 wins from hitting 1,100 in his career.
Notables
- South Florida’s pitching has held their opponents to no runs and six hits this season.
- The Bulls extended their win streak over Michigan to three games. The last win was 365 days ago to open the 2023 season.
- Four Bulls earned a hit.
- South Florida needs 13 wins to reach 1,500.
- Eriksen needs 14 wins to reach 1,100 in his career.
Up Next
The Bulls continue to play in the USF-Rawlings Invitational tomorrow with a Saturday afternoon game against Oregon State. The first pitch is set for 4:30 p.m.
About USF Softball
Be sure to follow USF softball on social media (Twitter / Facebook / Instagram) and visit GoUSFBulls.com for the most up-to-date information. The USF softball program has been one of the most successful on campus, making 16 NCAA tournament appearances, including a trip to the Women’s College World Series in 2012.
– #GoBulls –
