The formula for manufacturing runs is tried and true. Get ’em on. Get ’em over. Get ’em in. On Thursday in their 2017 Women’s College World Series opener, the Oregon softball team handled the first two parts just fine. But because the Ducks couldn’t execute that critical third element, in a 3-1 loss to Pac-12 rival Washington at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium, they’ll face a tough road to a national title. And they’ll have a full day to stew about their inability to drive in runs Thursday. The Ducks (52-7) are off Friday, before playing an elimination game Saturday against the loser of Thursday’s late game between Oklahoma or Baylor (11:30 a.m. PT, ESPN).
