The world of Texas Tech athletics never slows down, and this week has been no exception. From softball snubs to baseball connections and basketball updates, there’s plenty to discuss. Let’s dive into the latest Red Raiders news.
NiJaree Canady’s Snub for USA Softball Player of the Year
One of the biggest stories in college softball this season has been the dominance of Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady. The sophomore sensation has been nearly unhittable, posting a 0.50 ERA with 245 strikeouts in just 154 innings. Yet, when the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year finalists were announced, Canady’s name was shockingly absent.
Why Was Canady Left Out?
The three finalists—Oklahoma’s Jayda Coleman, Texas’ Reese Atwood, and Tennessee’s Kiki Milloy—are all deserving in their own right. However, Canady’s exclusion has sparked outrage among fans and analysts.
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Statistical Dominance: Canady leads the nation in ERA (0.50) and strikeouts per seven innings (11.1).
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Head-to-Head Success: She shut out Texas (a finalist’s team) twice this season.
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Impact: Stanford’s rise as a national contender is largely due to her arm.
Texas Tech Connection
While Canady isn’t a Red Raider, her snub raises questions about award voting biases—something Texas Tech fans know all too well. Whether it’s basketball, football, or baseball, Tech athletes often feel overlooked in national award conversations. This situation only adds fuel to that fire.
Grant McCasland Throws Out First Pitch to Josh Jung
In a fun crossover between Texas Tech basketball and baseball, head coach Grant McCasland threw out the first pitch at a recent Texas Rangers game—with a familiar face behind the plate: former Red Raiders star and current Rangers third baseman Josh Jung.
A Full-Circle Moment
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McCasland’s Rise: The basketball coach has quickly become a fan favorite in Lubbock after leading the Red Raiders to an NCAA Tournament appearance in his first season.
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Jung’s Stardom: A Tech baseball legend, Jung has blossomed into one of MLB’s brightest young stars, earning an All-Star selection in 2023 before injuries slowed him this season.
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Lubbock to Arlington: The moment symbolized the strong pipeline between Texas Tech athletics and professional sports.
What’s Next for Both?
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McCasland: After a strong debut season, he’s reloading via the transfer portal (hello, Kevin Overstreet).
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Jung: Working his way back from a wrist fracture, he’s expected to return soon and help the Rangers defend their World Series title.
Baseball’s Late-Season Push
Speaking of baseball, the Red Raiders are fighting for postseason positioning as the regular season winds down.
Key Takeaways:
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Record: Texas Tech sits at 30-19 (12-15 Big 12), needing a strong finish to secure an NCAA Tournament bid.
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Standout Performers:
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Gavin Kash (.330 BA, 12 HR) continues to be a force.
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Kyle Robinson (2.89 ERA) has emerged as a reliable weekend starter.
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Upcoming Series: A crucial stretch against Kansas and Oklahoma State will determine their fate.
Tournament Outlook
Right now, Tech is likely on the bubble. A series win against Kansas would help, but stealing one against Oklahoma State could lock them in.
Football Spring Game Takeaways
Joey McGuire’s squad wrapped up spring practices with the annual Red & Black Game, giving fans a glimpse of what’s to come in 2024.
Key Observations:
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QB Battle: Behren Morton looked sharp, but Cam Brown made plays too. This competition isn’t over.
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Defensive Standouts: The secondary, led by Braylon Conley, appears much improved.
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O-Line Questions: With several new faces, the unit is still gelling.
2024 Expectations
With a favorable schedule (no Texas, no Oklahoma), Tech could surprise in the new-look Big 12. A 7-8 win season seems realistic.
Basketball Transfer Portal Wins
Grant McCasland isn’t resting after Year 1. The Red Raiders have landed Elijah Hawkins (Minnesota) and Kevin Overstreet (JUCO standout), adding much-needed backcourt depth.
Who’s Next?
Tech remains in the mix for several impact transfers as McCasland looks to build a deeper roster for 2024-25.
Final Thoughts
From award snubs to exciting cross-sport moments, Texas Tech athletics continues to make headlines. Whether it’s Canady’s baffling omission, McCasland connecting with Jung, or the baseball team’s push for the postseason, Red Raiders fans have plenty to follow.
