Alabama softball’s Jenna Johnson out with injury for NCAA Tournament opener
Alabama softball will be without Jenna Johnson, its starting left fielder, for its NCAA Tournament opener versus Long Island on Friday.
Johnson pulled "something in her quad" earlier in the week. She was held out due to precautionary reasons but could've played if necessary according to coach Partick Murphy.
"She pulled like something in her quad Wednesday or Thursday in practice. She probably could've played, it was precautionary not to play her tonight."
Alabama would beat Long Island 5-0, thanks to seven scoreless innings from Jaala Torrence and home runs from Kali Heivilin and Ally Shipman. The Johnson injury is the second injury to strike an Alabama starter in the last week, as Crimson Tide ace Montana Fouts is day to day in the postseason with a hyperextended left knee.
Johnson has started 51 games, batting .280 with 16 runs, 25 RBIs and three home runs. She has ascended to the top of the Crimson Tide lineup. Johnson has been just as valuable with her glove, making multiple diving or at-the-wall catches. She has an on-base percentage of .322 and a slugging percentage of .364.
Johnson was replaced in the starting lineup by Jordan Stephens in left, with Kristen White and Larissa Preuitt completing the outfield. Kenleigh Cahalan moved back into the leadoff spot.
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This story will be updated.
This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Alabama softball Jenna Johnson out with injury for NCAA Tournament opener
