Team Italy women's softball squad battles FlU in Miami on April 27, 2021 at 6 pm (ET) while slugger Marta Gasparotto undergoes surgery in Rome

Team Italy women's softball squad battles FlU in Miami on April 27, 2021 at 6 pm (ET) while slugger Marta Gasparotto undergoes surgery in Rome
25/04/2021
After two doubleheaders against Canada at the in Fort Myers, the Team Italy women's softball squad travels to Miami to play against on April 27, 2021 at 6 pm (ET)

After two doubleheaders against Canada at the in Fort Myers, the Team Italy women's softball squad travels to Miami to play against on April 27, 2021 at 6 pm (ET). Watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking . 

Florida International University (FIU) hosted Canada on April 21, 2021. The Canadians easily cruised by the FIU Golden Panthers by a score of 9 to 1. Most recently, FIU (12-21) won one game in a four-game series against the . The FIU Golden Panthers are led by infielder Venessa Gallegos, who has put together an impressive .367 batting average. Fellow infielder Kayla Whitehead, who is not far behind with a .358 batting average, leads the team in extra-base hits (nine doubles and four triples). The Golden Panthers' shortstop with pop is Jessica Rivera, who has slugged six homers. Speedster outfielder Alexis Ross is threat on the bases as she has succeeded in 13 of her 14 stolen base attempts.

Considering FIU has played four games in three days, Team Italy will most likely see a combination of pitchers Kendahl Dunford (4-11), Brooklyn Linneman (5-5), Alexis Lawson (2-2), and Kaylie Jones (1-2). Kendahl Dunford leads the team in strikeouts (39), while Brooklyn Linneman follows with 38 Ks. The Italians may be able to take advantage of FIU catcher AnnMarie Cooker, who has thrown out just five baserunners in 18 stolen base attempts.

On the Team Italy news front, Azzurre slugger Marta Gasparotto will undergo surgery on her left knee following the injury she sustained last Wednesday during Florida Spring Training at the in Vero Beach. Dr. Gianluca Camillieri will perform the procedure at the Salvator Mundi International Hospital in Rome on April 27, 2021. Of deep concern is the meniscus and the condition of her ligaments. Marta Gasparotto is expected to make a full recovery within 30 days if no complications arise. Forza #Italia! #PerEnrico

by Roberto Angotti