ASU softball's strength is its pitching

As soon as Arizona State was announced as the No. 1 overall seed for this year's NCAA Division I softball tournament, discussion among the analysts on the ESPNU selection show quickly shifted to freshman pitcher Dallas Escobedo.

But what makes this ASU team unique, and a threat to make a lengthy run once the Tempe Regional starts, is its depth behind Escobedo with junior Hillary Bach and redshirt freshman Mackenzie Popescue.

"This is the best staff we've ever had," said coach Clint Myers, the Pac-10's Coach of the Year.