By Thomas Corhern, TTU Sports Information

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Sophomore pitcher Alyssa Arden saw a lot of action over the weekend at the Mercer Invitational, but she was awarded for her efforts on Tuesday as she was named the Tennessee Sports Writers Association's Pitcher of the Week.

The Goodlettsville native picked up two wins and a save in three appearances over the weekend. She earned her first win of the season in a gutsy effort against Mercer, going the distance over 140 pitches and seven frames as she struck out nine.

On only a few hours of rest before the early start the next morning, Arden threw another five frames in a 15-3 run-rule victory over Wright State, walking two and striking out five. Before the day was over, Arden came on in relief of winning pitcher Haeli Bryson against Dayton and held off the Flyers in the final 2 2/3 innings, walking one and striking out five.

It is the second time Arden has been selected for the award, including a pick last season on March 6, 2019.

Middle Tennessee's Lexi Cushing was named the organization's Player of the Week after hitting .556 with three home runs, four RBI and eight runs scored in six games against UC Riverside, Utah State, Loyola Marymount, San Jose State and Pacific.

The Golden Eagles (4-1) return to action on Friday at the Chattanooga Challenge, slated to open the tournament with Indiana State at 10 a.m. Central, weather permitting.

Photo | Thomas Corhern, TTU Sports Information