By Nathan Keil | Sports Editor
In 2017, Baylor senior third baseman Lindsey Cargill helped lead softball back to the College World Series for the first time since 2014. The feat was highlighted by two no-hitters by sophomore pitcher Gia Rodoni in the Waco Regional and an upset of No. 2 Arizona in the Tucson, Ariz. Super Regional.
Cargill led the team with a .430 battering average, tallying 83 hits in 193 at bats with six doubles, three triples and 15 runs driven in. She also swiped 34 bases in 40 attempts, good for 85 percent.
In 2018, Cargill will return to the Baylor dugout, this time a volunteer assistant coach. However, the Robinson native isn’t quite ready to hang up her cleats for good.
It was announced Wednesday that Cargill is one of the 56 athletes invited to the 2018 USA Softball Women’s National Team Selection Camp.
Cargill said that she is privileged to have the opportunity to compete while getting a chance to represent her country and Baylor.
“It’s a great honor to not only have the opportunity to represent my country, but also Baylor softball,” Cargill said in a press release. “I’m excited to compete with the best athletes in the nation and hopefully earn a spot on the USA roster.”
The opportunity will send Cargill to Clearwater, Fla., for tryouts for the 2018 USA Softball Women’s National Team. The tryouts will be held at the Eddie C. Moore Softball complex. If selected, Cargill will participate at the World Baseball Softball Confederation Women’s World Championship in Chiba, Japan. The tournament will run from Aug. 2 to 18.
Baylor head coach Glenn Moore said he is excited for Cargill’s opportunity to go and compete at the highest level.
“Baylor fans have had four years of enjoying the passionate play of Lindsey,” Moore said in a press release. “It’s exciting to know the National Team Selection Committee has noticed her as well and are considering her as a member of Team USA. We wish her the best!”
Cargill finished her Baylor career with a .360 batting average, starting in 235 of 240 games played, racking up 253 hits in 702 at bats while hitting six home runs, six triples, 22 doubles and driving in 69 runs. Her speed and bat control helped her steal 89 bases in 107 attempts, only striking out 38 times and only grounding into one double play.
Cargill will not be the only Big 12 standout who will be battling for a spot on the team. She will be joined by six current Oklahoma players, including senior pitchers Paige Lowary and Paige Parker, junior infielders Caleigh Cliffton, Sydney Romero and Shay Knighten, as well as sophomore utility Nicole Mendes.
The tryout will have participants compete in position drills as well as simulated games while being evaluated by the USA Softball Women’s National Team Selection Committee.
