LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- Trine's Danielle Ray has been named the Louisville Slugger/National Fastpitch Coaches Association Division III National Pitcher of the Week.
Ray (Hamilton, Ohio / Badin) earned the win or save in each of her six appearances last week, including two victories over top 10 opponents. Ray went 3-0 with three saves and a 1.37 ERA on the week. She struck out 30 batters and walked just six in 30.2 innings of work. Ray was previously named the MIAA Softball Pitcher of the Week. This is the first national honor of the freshman's collegiate career.
The Louisville Slugger/NFCA Division III National Player and Pitcher of the Week are selected by Division III head coaches representing the eight NCAA regions.
In starts against No. 4 Luther and No. 6 Messiah, Ray combined to work 15 innings in two complete game victories. Ray retired the last 16 batters in order, including striking out the side in the seventh, in a 3-1 victory over Messiah. She allowed just two hits, walked one and struck out seven in the win. Ray allowed an earned run on five hits, walked three and fanned three in the eight-inning victory over Luther.
Ray owns a 6-0 record with a 1.86 ERA in nine appearances this season. She ranks second in the MIAA with 45 strikeouts. Ray has earned the win or a save in each of her appearances. Her three saves lead the MIAA and rank third in the nation.
Trine off to a 16-0 start, the team's longest undefeated streak to open a season in program history. The team hosts Anderson in the home-opener this Saturday, Mar. 25. First pitch at SportONE/Parkview Softball Field is scheduled for 1 p.m.