The University of Chicago softball team enters the week with a doubleheader looming on its schedule against Wheaton College. The team was originally scheduled to play Elmhurst as well, but the game was postponed. The Maroons are coming off of three straight losses against UW–Whitewater and Millikin University. Third-year Carly Schulz touched on the team getting back to the basics after the tough losses by saying, “As a team, we have been focusing on the fundamentals and improving our execution by working on our bunts and general live hitting. We are taking specific learning points from the last few games and making sure to improve from here on out.” 

The Maroons have a difficult schedule for the rest of the year. Due to the Chicago winter that seemingly will not end, the Maroons have had several games postponed or canceled, such as the Elmhurst game this week. This week’s play could prove pivotal for Chicago to have a chance at making the DIII softball tournament. Schulz commented on the team’s view of the rest of the season: “We know what we have to do for the rest of the season, and we have been working very hard in practice to ensure that we will be able to take these next few games.”

The key for the Maroons going forward will hinge on the play of second-year shortstop and lead-off hitter Emma Nelson. Nelson has been batting .338 this year while leading the team in walks and being second on the team in runs scored. Schulz touched on her fellow infielder’s play by saying that, “Emma has been our anchor throughout the season, making game-changing plays at short and always starting our games off on a high note at the plate.” Nelson was named to the NCAA-All Region team last year and is looking to continue her success this year. 

The Maroons square off against Wheaton College on Thursday.