After losing to Florida State in the Tallahassee Regional Final, Auburn’s softball season ends.
On May 19, 2024, Auburn softball’s season concluded in the Tallahassee Regional final with a 10-4 loss to No. 12 Florida State. This defeat not only ended the Tigers’ postseason run but also marked the end of a significant era for the program.(Auburn Tigers Athletics)
Auburn entered the 2024 NCAA Tournament with a 29-21-1 record, earning a spot in the Tallahassee Regional as a No. 2 seed. The Tigers faced UCF in their opening game, securing a victory that propelled them into the regional final against the host Seminoles. Florida State, with a 46-14 record, was the No. 15 national seed and had a history of strong performances in the postseason. (https://www.wctv.tv, Auburn Tigers Athletics)
The championship game was a tightly contested affair, with Auburn taking an early 2-0 lead in the second inning. Nelia Peralta’s two-out single drove in the first runs for the Tigers. Florida State responded in the third inning with a three-run homer by Michaela Edenfield, giving the Seminoles a 3-2 lead. Auburn tied the game at 3-3 in the fifth inning, showcasing their resilience.(Auburn Tigers Athletics)
However, the turning point came in the sixth inning when Florida State erupted for seven runs, taking a commanding 10-3 lead. Auburn’s KK McCrary hit a solo home run in the bottom of the sixth, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit. The game concluded with a 10-4 victory for the Seminoles, advancing them to the NCAA Super Regionals. (Auburn Tigers Athletics, Auburn Tigers Athletics, https://www.wctv.tv)
The loss was particularly poignant as it marked the final game for head coach Mickey Dean, who had led the Tigers since 2017. Under his guidance, Auburn achieved a 235-130 record and made six NCAA Tournament appearances. Dean expressed pride in his team’s efforts and character, emphasizing the importance of integrity and teamwork. (Auburn Wire)
Additionally, the game signaled the end of the careers for key players like Maddie Penta, Shelby Lowe, and Makayla Packer. Penta, in particular, left a lasting legacy with three All-American honors, six All-SEC selections, and a 2023 SEC Pitcher of the Year award. Over four seasons, she amassed a 76-36 record with a 1.79 ERA and 941 strikeouts. (Auburn Tigers Athletics, Auburn Wire)
Despite the season’s end, Auburn softball showed promise with a strong roster and competitive spirit. The team was set to lose only three seniors, indicating a foundation for future success. The offseason would bring changes, including the search for a new head coach and the development of emerging talent to continue building on the program’s legacy.(Auburn Tigers Athletics)
In conclusion, while the 2024 season ended in disappointment, it highlighted the resilience and dedication of the Auburn softball team. The Tigers’ journey through the Tallahassee Regional was a testament to their growth and potential, setting the stage for future achievements.
