Can the No. 24 Cowgirls softball squad keep their shutout streak alive at the OSU/Tulsa Invitational? Returning home after dominating the River State Classic with 58-1 scoring edge, OSU hosts Nebraska and SEMO this week
STILLWATER, Okla. — The No. 24/19 Oklahoma State Cowgirls softball team (11-4) returns home this week for the OSU/Tulsa Invitational at Cowgirl Stadium, looking to build on a dominant weekend at the River State Classic.
After outscoring opponents 58-1 across five games, including four run-rule victories, OSU hosts Nebraska and Southeast Missouri State (SEMO) in a packed slate from February 26 to March 1.
All games stream on ESPN+ and can be followed via live stats on okstate.com.
The Cowgirls aim to leverage their potent offense and stingy pitching against a mix of Big Ten and Ohio Valley Conference foes.
In their most recent outing on February 21, OSU crushed Brown 17-0 in five innings, highlighted by an explosive 11-run second inning that featured timely hits and capitalizing on errors.
Standout batters included Claire Timm, who boasts a team-leading .485 average with 2 home runs and 15 RBIs this season, and Amanda Hasler, pacing the squad with 3 homers and 23 RBIs at .342. Rosie Davis (.366, 13 RBIs) and Aubrey Jones (.364) have been consistent table-setters, while Jayelle Austin leads with 4 home runs.
On the mound, the Cowgirls posted back-to-back shutouts over the weekend, with RyLee Crandall delivering a complete-game gem on February 20 against Brown (14-0).
Ruby Meylan, ranked among the top 10 NCAA pitchers entering the week by @64Analytics_Sfb on X, anchors a staff that has limited opponents to one run over the last four games. No starting pitchers have been announced for the invitational, per the team’s X post and official site.
The invitational kicks off Thursday, continuing OSU’s strong non-conference play.
Thursday, February 26, 6:00 PM CT vs. Nebraska (11-4):
The Cornhuskers bring a hot streak (7 straight wins) and strong bats led by Jesse Farrell (.455, 3 HR) and Hannah Camenzind (.440, 2 HR). OSU must contain Nebraska’s power while pushing the tempo. Expect Meylan to challenge their .291 team average in this opener.
Friday, February 27, 3:00 PM CT vs. Southeast Missouri State (3-6):
Struggling Redhawks, fresh off a 6-0 shutout loss to No. 8 Arkansas, hit just .258 as a team. Key threats include Sophie Schupp and Willow Van Haren from the roster. Cowgirls’ offense could feast, but focus on clean defense against SEMO’s opportunistic base stealers (24-27 success).
Friday, February 27, 5:30 PM CT vs. Southeast Missouri State (3-6):
Doubleheader nightcap offers OSU a chance to sweep SEMO, who allow 6.75 ERA. Exploit their pitching woes with Hasler and Austin’s power and limit walks to avoid extending innings against a team desperate for momentum after recent beatings.
Saturday, February 28, 2:00 PM CT vs. Nebraska (11-4):
Rematch with the Huskers, whose pitchers like Jordy Frahm (2.67 ERA, 24 K) pose threats. OSU’s depth, including Godwin’s .357 average, should shine at home. The key is early leads to pressure Nebraska’s 3.99 staff ERA.
Sunday, March 1, Noon CT vs. Southeast Missouri State (3-6):
Final tilt with SEMO provides rotation flexibility. Watch for Timm to extend her hot streak. Cowgirls aim for shutout, capitalizing on Redhawks’ .371 opponent average allowed while building confidence before Big 12 play.
Sunday, March 1, 2:30 PM CT vs. Nebraska (11-4):
Closing the invitational against Nebraska’s experienced lineup, including Lauren Camenzind (.269). OSU needs sharp pitching from Crandall or Meylan to counter Huskers’ 13 homers. A fun home crowd could fuel a series-clinching offensive outburst.
With a 5-0 weekend behind them, the Cowgirls eye an unbeaten homestand to climb rankings.