Olympic Softball

By now, you know that the USA Softball team lost to Japan in the gold medal game 3–1. In single elimination play, it doesn’t really matter that the USA was clearly the best team. It didn’t matter that they had the best slugger in the world (Crystl Bustos), or the best offense in the world, or the best pitcher in the world (Cat Osterman). One or two bad pitches, one or two bad at-bats, and you don’t win that game, and you get the silver medal.

An Associated Press writer summed it up: “This wasn't how it was supposed to end for the Americans, who had lost just four of 36 in Olympic play. Not this team. Not this time. Not this tournament.” Five USA players, who were retiring from the team, left their cleats at home plate.

I was pretty deflated. Nothing like what Cat Osterman was feeling, of course. A week later, Cat explains her feelings: “I figured it’s finally time to face reality. After all, life does go on. I don’t think I have ever felt the way I’ve felt for the last week. It’s been an emotional roller coaster to be honest. It’s hard to put all of this into words, so bear with me.”

We still love you, Cat, you have given us so many great memories, and we look forward to seeing you in the circle again. In my mind, and in many people’s mind, you are still the best pitcher in the world. Go get ’em, Cat!