University of Florida sophomore Aleshia Ocasio is one of three finalists for the 2016 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year, announced Wednesday by the Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA). The other finalists are Auburn's Kasey Cooper and Michigan's Sierra Romero.
A season ago, Lauren Haeger became the first Gator to receive the award<http://floridagators.com/news/2015/5/27/30694.aspx?path=softball>, which is considered the most prestigious honor in Division I women's softball. Haeger was one of three finalists in addition to Oregon's Cheridan Hawkins and Michigan's Sierra Romero.
In just her sophomore season, Ocasio boasts a 22-1 record and a 0.65 ERA through regional play. Ranked in the Top 10 in the nation in saves, Ocasio leads the country in ERA, helping to land her First Team All-SEC accolades. Ocasio also leads the SEC in ERA, and is ranked in the Top 10 in the conference in opposing batting average (.182), strikeouts (144), wins (22) and saves (6).
The winner of the 2016 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Award will be announced on May 31 at the team only banquet just prior to the start of the Women's College World Series. This award is voted on by coaching representatives of 10 Division I Conferences in the 15 ASA/USA Softball Regions, members of the media who consistently cover Division I Softball across the country as well as past winners of the award.
Article provided and written by the University of Florida.