UCLA Softball Leadoff Hitter Rylee Slimp Discusses Approach Ahead of WCWS

UCLA sophomore Rylee Slimp enters the Women's College World Series as the Bruins' leadoff hitter after setting a single-season school record with 94 runs scored. 428 with 16 home runs and 56 RBIs. She broke Natasha Watley's 2001 mark of 75 runs during the current season.

Inouye-Perez said Slimp has shown the ability to perform in high-stakes games since travel ball and high school. The coach noted that Slimp can hit home runs and hit to all parts of the field while maintaining a disciplined eye at the plate. The Austin, Texas, native joined UCLA after coach Lisa Fernandez saw her play in a tournament during her sophomore year of high school.

Slimp canceled other recruiting visits after the contact and committed to the Bruins.

The Bruins roster includes 10 returners and 10 newcomers. Slimp said upperclassmen such as seniors Taylor Tinsley and Megan Grant have helped younger players maintain perspective during games. The team adopted a boxing theme after watching a Michael Jackson movie together.

Players wear bedazzled boxing gloves around their necks after hitting home runs. Slimp said the group also passes around a Michael Jackson glove in the dugout as part of the shared interest that developed after the outing.

Asked about regional food comparisons, Slimp said she prefers In-N-Out over Whataburger and stated that Texas tacos are better because they use flour tortillas.