Ripping off a long winning streak in baseball or softball is probably more difficult than any other sport, given how one player -- a pitcher -- can shut down even the hottest of teams. Or how even one misplayed ball can turn a lead into a loss.
So what do you make of Central Oklahoma's 25-game winning streak on the softball diamond?
Well, amazing comes immediately to mind. Or mind-boggling. How about incredible?
Whatever word you want to use, it would probably fit. But since dropping a 4-2 decision to Central Missouri on Feb. 17 to fall to 2-3, the Bronchos have been simply unbeatable.
They've won mostly in blowouts, with 15 of those 25 wins by at least five runs -- including nine that have ended early on the eight-run mercy rule. But they've also won close games, having prevailed in five one-run decisions.
Now 27-3, UCO is ranked 12th and rising. Playing as an NCAA Division II independent this season while between conferences, the Bronchos can only qualify for the national tournament as an at-large entry and will need to continue their winning ways to make the playoffs.
That, however, shouldn't be much of a problem.
The Bronchos of veteran coach Genny Stidham feature an overpowering offensive attack that overwhelms opponents, though this team still has plenty of speed along with a pair of proven pitchers.
UCO is averaging 8.1 runs a game and ranks among the Division II national leaders in batting average (.375), runs (242), home runs (47) and runs batted in (229). The Bronchos have already broken the school single-season record for homers and will also shatter the marks for runs and RBI, since 18 regular-season games still remain.
Nathalie Timmermans, Kacie Edwards and Megan Whitmire lead UCO's big boppers. That trio has combined for 33 homers and 126 RBI, with Timmermans having tied the school record for homers (14) and Edwards having already surpassed the RBI record with 49.
Then there's Kayce Raines, batting a team-high .474 with an on-base percentage over .500. And Kaylee Brunson, hitting .417 as the lead-off with 16 stolen bases. And Brittany Weaver, with her .353 average and impeccable defense at second base.
Don't forget pitchers Amanda McClelland (14-1, 2.91 earned run average) and Rachael Steverson (13-2, 3.43).
Will the winning streak ever end? Probably so, given the sport, but this is a special team and they're on a special roll.
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