OU Softball: Oklahoma Coach Patty Gasso Discusses C Kinzie Hansen’s Injury
During a press conference on Tuesday, Oklahoma softball coach Patty Gasso provided an update on catcher Kinzie Hansen’s condition, stating that she is considered “day-to-day” following her absence from nearly all of last week’s five games due to an injury.
Gasso explained that Hansen’s injury involves a minor knee tweak that they are handling cautiously to avoid aggravation. She emphasized the need for cautious management, indicating that they are closely monitoring her status.
Having been named a co-captain alongside Tiare Jennings this season, Hansen, a senior from Norco, CA, is not expected to be sidelined for the entire season, according to Gasso. The team is taking a day-to-day approach to her recovery.
Hansen has started in 23 games for the Sooners this season. Despite missing last week’s midweek doubleheader against Tarleton State due to an illness and subsequently being limited to one at-bat in the opener against Texas Tech before returning to the bench, Hansen’s absence has been filled by senior Riley Ludlam, a transfer from Furman, who has performed admirably with 12 starts and a .385 batting average, along with two home runs and 16 RBIs in 26 games this season.
Acknowledging Ludlam’s contributions, Gasso noted that senior Alynah Torres serves as Ludlam’s backup.
Hansen boasts a .367 batting average this season, with seven home runs and 16 RBIs, demonstrating her prowess at the plate. Throughout her career, she has maintained a high batting average, surpassing .400 in three seasons, including a standout performance last season with a .409 average and 13 home runs. Hansen’s impressive track record includes being a two-time NFCA All-American and recipient of the Johnny Bench Award as the top college softball catcher.
With Hansen as the primary catcher, the Sooners have secured three consecutive national championships. Currently ranked No. 1, Oklahoma holds a 27-1 record for the season and is set to host four games this week, including matchups against UT-Arlington on Wednesday and Baylor from Friday through Sunday in Big 12 Conference play.
