Montana Fouts throws bullpen Friday, Alabama unsure about regional availability

Alabama won the opening game of its NCAA regional, but expectedly, the absence of Montana Fouts was a major storyline. After a few questions about Jaala Torrence’s complete game shutout, Crimson Tide head coach Patrick Murphy was asked about the status of his ace.

“She pitched full out in the batting cages before. I wasn’t in there. I didn’t see it. I’m pretty sure it’s true,” Murphy joked postgame. “There was a rumor going around. Not to be spreading rumors, but no, she did. But I honestly don’t know if she’ll pitch tomorrow.”

Fouts hyperextended her left leg a week ago in the Southeastern Conference tournament against Arkansas. Since she slipped, each of Murphy’s press availabilities has featured multiple requests for an update.

In her place against LIU on Friday, Jaala Torrence guided Alabama (41-18) to a 5-0 win. Torrence allowed just four base runners, striking out five for the first seven-inning complete-game shutout of her career. Like Torrence and Fouts, Alabama pitcher Alex Salter also warmed up pregame.

Throughout her rehab this week, Fouts has met with multiple doctors and has a series of three tests she needs to pass before returning.

The Tide will continue on in the winner’s bracket tomorrow afternoon against Middle Tennessee (40-18), which beat Central Arkansas, 8-0, in five innings.

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Alabama pitcher makes up for Fouts’ absence in NCAA regional shutout win over LIU

Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at NAlvarez@al.com.