Alabama Softball's Montana Fouts Available for Super Regional

Crimson Tide ace has been out for two weeks with a knee injury, but is ready to pitch in the series with Northwestern.

University of Alabama softball All-American pitcher Montana Fouts will be available for the Crimson Tide’s super regional in Tuscaloosa this weekend.

Alabama softball coach Patrick Murphy delivered the news Thursday at a press conference at Rhoads Stadium. The Bama senior ace has been sidelined the past two weeks with a knee injury she sustained at the SEC Tournament. She didn’t see action in any of the four regional tournament games last week.

Murphy didn’t reveal what Fouts’ role would be in the super regional against Northwestern, but she is ready to pitch.

“She was very excited and Facetimed me this morning,” Murphy said. “She had gone to Birmingham to see Dr. (Lyle) Cain again and do physical therapy. They are both working overtime. I don’t want to say miracles but they are doing great. That’s the most excited I’ve heard her.”

Murphy said Fouts (26-3, 311 strikeouts, 1.44 ERA) would likely throw a bullpen session later Thursday, as she did Wednesday.

"As the days have gone on it’s gotten better and better,” Murphy said.

Fouts has been in a special knee brace that can be adjusted depending on the feedback she gives doctors. Murphy said Fouts felt “fine” earlier this week, which is “the first time she’s said that.”

Fouts was seen in the bullpen during the Crimson Tide’s decisive game with Middle Tennessee in the regional. Murphy said Fouts was available if needed.

Ally Shipman’s solo home run for the game’s only run secured the super regional berth. It was a big relief for Murphy, who didn’t have to risk further injury to Fouts.

“Sunday was the toughest day of my coaching career,” Murphy said. “A thousand things were going through my head. It was overwhelming to say the least. Thank goodness it turned out the way it did. It was for the best.

Alabama begins Game 1 of super regional play against Northwestern on Friday at 7 p.m. ESPN2 will televise the game. It’s the 17th super regional for Alabama and the 12th time the Crimson Tide has hosted.

Game 2 is set for Saturday at 8 p.m. on ESPN. The if-necessary game is slated for Sunday with time to be determined.