Ohio State softball senior shortstop and captain Alicia Herron has performed at a historic pace for the Buckeyes throughout her four years. As the team prepares for a six-game home stand, including a weekend series against Michigan, Herron will be closing in on numerous OSU career records.

Herron has a chance to be at the top of multiple statistical batting categories by the end of the year. Herron stands second all-time in home runs, third in RBIs and runs scored, tied for fourth in triples, fifth in batting average and tied for seventh in doubles.

The two-time All-Big Ten selection is on track for a third selection this season as she is leading the conference in home runs, RBIs, triples and total bases. Herron’s teammates said her consistent production has made her an essential part of the Buckeyes’ success.

“It means a lot having (Herron) on the team,” said freshman catcher Shelby Pickett, “We can always count on her to go out and play well. She’s a great leader and has a great impact every game.”

The softball team includes only four seniors on the roster, meaning Herron is often in a leadership role. Freshman infielder Maddy McIntyre said Herron is someone who leads by example.

“I play the same position as (Herron), so it is good to have someone to look up to,” McIntyre said. “She doesn’t have to say too much. She sets an example through her performance and everyone follows.”

The Buckeyes look to a six-game stretch at Buckeye Field Wednesday with a doubleheader against Buffalo at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Later in the week, rival Michigan will travel to Columbus for a three-game series beginning Friday at 5:30 p.m.

McIntyre said this weekend’s series against Michigan is crucial because the Buckeyes and Wolverines are tied for second in the Big Ten standings at 5-1.

“We’re really excited about the games,” McIntyre said. “We lost to them both times last year, but this year we have a better team and are ready to go.”

The team has seen a dramatic turnaround from last year, already winning seven more games than it won in the previous season when it finished 11th in the conference. As the important week of games approach, the Buckeyes now sit just one game behind Purdue for first place in the Big Ten and are 21-11 overall.