After winning its first Southeastern Conference series against Ole Miss, No. 1 Florida (24-1, 2-1 SEC) will take a break from league play with a home doubleheader against Mercer (17-7, 2-1 Atlantic Sun) starting today at 4 p.m.
Mercer has power throughout its lineup, with all nine of its starters accruing a slugging percentage of at least .411.
The Gators are going to try to find a way to slow down the Bears, who have won nine games in six innings or fewer this season, by avoiding miscues on defense.
Florida boasts a .984 fielding percentage this season, ranking third in the SEC.
Through 25 games, the Gators have committed only 11 errors on defense, compared to the 14 they created at this point last season.
“We put a lot of stock in our defense,” coach Tim Walton said. “We take a lot of pride in it. That’s what we work hard on every single day. If you ever ask me about letdowns, we can’t let down defensively.”
Against Ole Miss on Sunday, Florida’s infield made several key grabs early in the contest. In the second inning, second baseman Kirsti Merritt made a running catch in foul territory for the first out of the frame.
One inning later, third baseman Stephanie Tofft caught a pop-up bunt in foul territory and first baseman Taylor Schwarz ran into a wall in foul territory to get the second out of the inning.
“We kind of make it a challenge for us, try to see who can catch a ball that’s over the net, running into the wall, things like that,” Tofft said. “It’s a fun challenge for us to try and get as many outs like that and making good defensive plays. It’s kind of our thing.”
Tofft, Kelsey Stewart and Lauren Haeger, who combine for 88 of UF’s 180 RBIs, will spark Florida’s offense against Mercer.
After plating only two hits through Florida’s first six games of the season, Tofft rebounded and has been a force on offense. The Lincoln, Calif., native is tied with Aubree Munro with a team-leading five doubles, and she is second only to Haeger with 28 RBIs and four home runs.
“We’ve got some really good, talented players and some kids that really do a good job,” Walton said.
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Kelsey Stewart attempts a bunt during Florida’s win against Jacksonville on Feb. 19 at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium. Stewart leads UF with a .432 batting average.
