UCLA Softball To Face Arizona in NCAA Super Regionals

This is probably the most anticipated matchup in the NCAA Softball Super Regionals this year. It’s the Bruins vs. the Wildcats — two of the most prominent teams in NCAA Softball.

Between these two teams, they have won 20 of the 36 Women’s College World Series since play began in 1982. UCLA has won twelve times while Arizona has won eight times.

But, more important than that history is the recent history between these clubs. UCLA owns the recent history with the Cats. The Bruins have won seven straight Pac-12 series against Arizona including a three-game sweep in Tucson in mid-April.

This series will be played at Easton Stadium in Westwood, where the Bruins have won eight of the last nine. Overall, UCLA is 46-22 against Arizona at Easton Stadium.

So, that would seem to give the Bruins an edge.

But, if UCLA wants to advance to the Women’s College World Series, the Bruins will need to get their bats going against Arizona like they did on Sunday against the Cal State Fullerton Titans.

That’s how they swept the Wildcats in April when UCLA scored 24 runs in three games while giving up just 12. On the other hand, if UCLA struggles at the plate like they did in the first few games last weekend, the Cats could pull off the upset.

But, personally, I’d be surprised if that happens. This team has been rock solid at the plate all season long and I don’t see any reason why they would go cold now with the WCWS on the line. My prediction is a two-game series sweep by UCLA.

Tonight’s game will air on ESPN, which goes to show you just how big this series is. Tomorrow’s game will air on ESPN2 and, if a third game is necessary, it will be on ESPN again on Saturday.

This is your UCLA Bruins vs. Arizona Wildcats NCAA Super Regional Game 1 open thread.


Go Bruins!!! Bring home 117!!!