After putting up two double-digit run games in its series against Ohio State, including multiple grand slams, Penn State softball’s bats are hot at the right time.

Ahead of Tuesday night’s rivalry game with Pitt, head coach Clarisa Crowell spoke about her team’s offensive identity, one that’s been defined by confidence, consistency, and the commitment to improving every day.

“We’ve been scoring a ton of runs all year,” Crowell said. “That’s not by accident. We knew in the fall we had a good group of hitters. It was just about trusting the process.”

The Nittany Lions put up 11 runs in Sunday’s series finale against ranked Ohio State, marking one of their most complete offensive showings of the season. But even after a good offensive performance, Crowell said her team’s mindset is always focused on what’s ahead.

“We scored 11, but we still talked about how we could’ve done more,” she said. “That’s the mentality: 1% better every day, and never be content.”

Crowell also credited assistant coaches Adrianna Baggetta and Mysha Sataraka for guiding the offense all year long. She said their work with hitters has helped establish an identity based on preparation, confidence, and trust.

The offensive output will be critical as the team takes on in-state rival Pitt in its final home game before heading on the road for two weeks. While Penn State already beat the Panthers in the fall, Crowell knows the rematch at Beard Field will come with a different kind of energy.

“It’s Pitt. It’s an in-state rivalry, and they want nothing more than to come in here and beat us at our place,” she said. “But we are going to give them our best.”

Crowell also pointed out that Tuesday’s game holds extra meaning for two players on the Nittany Lions’ roster. Jordan George and Haylie Brunson both transferred from Pitt to come play at Penn State. George has recently been seeing more pinch-hit opportunities, and Brunson spent two years with the Panthers before joining Penn State.

The Nittany Lions have structured their lineup to hit for both power and versatility. With aggressive base running and depth throughout the order, they continue to find new ways to put runs up on the board.

“We don’t focus on breaking records or putting up huge numbers,” Crowell said. “We just focus on doing the little things right. Taking extra bases, staying aggressive, and trusting each other to get the job done.”