South Florida pitchers swept the Conference USA pitchers of the week awards. Right-hander Casey Hudspeth (4-1, 3.27 ERA) compiled a 2-0 record on the week with a 1.32 ERA. Striking out eight batters throughout the week, Hudspeth became the second freshman pitcher at USF to receive this honor (Chase Lirette — Feb. 23).

Joining him was senior Leigh Ann Ellis, who snagged the distinction for the third time this season.

The left-handed Ellis struck out 40 batters in 28 2/3 innings pitched and went a perfect 5-0 during the week. Her record this season stands at 23-4 with a 0.92 ERA.  

Ellis threw a pair of one-hitters, including a victory against Radford where she posted 11 strikeouts in five innings. She scattered 13 hits during her five victories, all of which were singles.  

The highlight of Hudspeth’s week came against No. 6 Miami. The Sarasota native pitched 7 2/3 innings vs. the Hurricanes, holding the team from Coral Gables scoreless on only three hits.

“To have a dominating performance against the No. 6 team in the nation, for a freshman, is outstanding,” said coach Eddie Cardieri of Hudspeth. “Casey’s a very good competitor. I’m very proud his performance this week.”

The freshman hurler registered six strikeouts versus the ‘Canes. Hudspeth earned his second victory of the week in a two-run, eight-hit performance against Cincinnati on Sunday. Hudspeth struck out two Bearcats while not allowing a base-on-balls in six innings of action. Hudspeth is tied for the team lead in strikeouts (35). His strikeout-to-walk ratio is nearly 3-to-1.

Satisfied at second

The USF men’s golf team tied Wichita State for second place in the 17-team El Diablo Intercollegiate in Citrus Springs this weekend. The Bulls and Shockers each shot a combined 902 for 54 holes, 11 shots behind winner Eastern Kentucky. USF and Wichita State compiled identical scores, shooting 304-297-301.

Oscar Fraustro carried USF by tying for sixth place with a 54-hole 223, 10 shots behind medalist Brandon Brown of Eastern Kentucky. Fraustro’s second-round 70 tied for the tournament’s lowest round. Ryan Shears, Chris Black and Brad Quiri finished together in 16th place with a 227.

Teammate Jeremy Sims, competing as an individual, also shot 227, including an opening-round 72.

Staff reports