She’s had four multiple-hit games this year with Sunday being her biggest to date.
“If you are Kathryn right now, you are playing with confidence,” said Missouri Coach Ehren Earleywine, whose team is ranked 11th in the country and who has led the Tigers to at least 40 wins in each of his three seasons. “She’s a very hot hitter right now and she’s been giving us production.
“She had some struggles during the season, but she’s a good rise-ball hitter who rolled into the super regionals.”
Poet’s teammates have also been able to count on her, including sophomore catcher Megan Christopher.
Christopher said Poet’s athleticism provides the Tigers with a lift.
“She’s been constantly working at getting better,” said Christopher, who has registered four multiple-hit games this season and received all-tournament accolades following the conference championship in Oklahoma City on May 10. “That’s awesome seeing that because she’s a very good athlete.”
Being away from the Los Angeles area has given Poet time to tackle learning the ropes of independence, studying and listening to people willing to provide suggestions with softball. That’s life for her right now on the college grounds of Columbia, Mo.
“Being away from home, I can do things on my own to better myself individually,” said Poet, who has registered three doubles, scored 21 runs and recorded 21 putouts this season. “Responsibility prepares you to better your life.
“To be in the College World Series, I’m speechless. It doesn’t get any better other than winning it. It’s probably going to be surreal at first, but then you will be playing ball the next minute. It’s a dream come true for me.”
