AMES, Iowa – Cyclone freshman pitcher Breeanna Holliday has big shoes to fill. When senior Rachel Zabriskie graduates at season’s end, Holliday will graduate from reliever to starter, using the knowledge she has learned from Zabriskie to make her own mark on the Big 12. |AMES, Iowa – Cyclone freshman pitcher Breeanna Holliday has big shoes to fill. When senior Rachel Zabriskie graduates at season’s end, Holliday will graduate from reliever to starter, using the knowledge she has learned from Zabriskie to make her own mark on the Big 12.
“Rachel has taught me how to go out there and get the job done,” Holliday said. “She is always working hard and it rubs off on the whole team. She’s a great role model.”
Looking to next year, Holliday aims for more consistency on the field and more command of her pitches. While struggling at times, the Moorpark, Calif. native has also shown great promise, as showcased by her five innings of work in a start against the then-No. 17 Baylor Bears on May 1. Holliday allowed just one earned run on eight hits in the outing in which she walked two and fanned two.
“I want to be more confident when I get out there,” Holliday said. “Every batter is good in the Big 12 so it comes down to making your pitches move to control the game.”
Iowa State pitching coach Gary Hines appreciates the depth Holliday provides for the team. Her 43 2/3 innings this season is second only to Zabriskie.
“She has given us some quality innings to help us rest Rachel more than we have been able to in the past,” Hines said. “There are some really good teams we face every year and we are going to need her.”
In the future, Hines expects big things from Holliday, who has posted a 4.81 ERA in 18 appearances, including six starts.
“I see her competing to be the number one pitcher next year,” Hines said. “The time between freshmen and sophomore year is when most pitchers improve the most. Next year she will come back and know what to expect and know how hard to work.”
