Panic time after a disappointing loss to Kansas State? I think it’s too early to say the Shockers have blown a chance to host a regional. It’s easy to get caught up in WSU’s up-and-down play in recent weeks. It’s important to remember other teams are also struggling. Exhibit A is Missouri, which has lost five in a row. Tuesday, KU’s Shaeffer Hall shut out the Tigers for seven innings in a 3-0 victory. The first loss of that streak came to Southern Illinois. Missouri, once a lock to host, is wobbling.
The Shockers play at Oklahoma tonight. They need to get rolling again, and it’s not clear if they can do it or not. The loss of Josh Workman, combined with a run of tougher competition, has slowed WSU’s momentum. But, the Shockers can still play their way into a regional host with a strong finish. They are still highly ranked. According to Boyd’s World, WSU’s RPI is 30. Last season at regional time, it was in the low 20s. In this part of the country, it appears Nebraska, Texas A&M and Rice will host. Oklahoma State deserves to host, but I don’t know if Allie P. Reynolds Stadium can handle it. It is seriously out-of-date for a regional from both a fan and media standpoint. OSU may end up somewhere as a No. 1. The Oklahoma RedHawks are on the road during the regionals (May 30-June 2) so OKC may be an option.
WSU and Missouri are both slumping. From WSU’s perspective, a win tonight and three over the weekend against Northern Iowa will make things look better. The Shockers need to get healthy, start hitting, and hold leads in the late inning.