OKLAHOMA CITY, Ok. – UMass Lowell softball rising junior Kaysee Talcik (Shelton, Conn.) took part in the 2017 World Cup of Softball as a member of Team Puerto Rico from July 5-9.
 
The event marked the 12th World Cup of Softball. Japan edged the United States, 2-1, on Sunday, July 9 to win the title for the second consecutive year. Team Puerto Rico finished sixth overall in the standings with a 3-6 record during the five-day tournament.
 
Talcik made four appearances in her inaugural international event, turning in a 2.21 ERA with four strikeouts in 6.1 innings pitched.  
 
"This is such a great opportunity for me," said Talcik. "I'm very appreciative of this opportunity and being able to represent Puerto Rico. Coming from UMass Lowell to play with athletes that have been in the College World Series and to face some of the

best players in the world has been surreal. This opportunity is amazing and will only help make me better. Vamos Puerto Rico!"
 
The Shelton, Conn. native made her debut on July 5 against Japan, as she struck out two and allowed just one run in relief against the eventual World Cup of Softball Champions. After seeing time in the circle against Canada on July 7, she was called out of the bullpen against Mexico on July 8, hurling one shutout inning. Talcik then completed the week with another 2.2 scoreless innings of work against the U.S. Junior Women's National Team on July 9.
 
"I am so proud of Kaysee for making this team," said UMass Lowell Head Coach Danielle Henderson. "I think it is such a great opportunity for her in her pitching career."
 
The right-handed pitcher was invited to try out for Team Puerto Rico in Plant City, Florida in June. Talcik will now look ahead to August, as the current roster will be whittled down to 15 players prior to the 2017 Pan American Championship in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.