Katelyn Boyd & Alix Johnson Named First Team All-Americans

On the eve of their first game in the 2012 Women's College World Series, the defending champion Sun Devils received some great news.

In a move that should surprise few who saw them play this season for Arizona State, shortstop Katelyn Boyd and outfielder Alix Johnson were both named first team All-Americans by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association today.

Boyd, a senior, is one of three finalists for the national Player of the Year, and it's easy to see why. Her .448 batting average led the Pac-12 and ranked fifth in the nation. She also had 19 home runs, 61 RBI, 22 stolen bases and an amazing 1.473 OPS. This marks the first team All-Pac-12 player's third All-American selection in her illustrious career.

Johnson is in the midst of a great sophomore season that saw her make the All-Pac-12 first team. She teamed with Boyd to form a lethal duo atop the ASU lineup that was as good or better than any in the nation. Johnson hit .407 with 12 home runs, 50 RBI and a 1.322 OPS. This marks her second award of the week, after being named House of Sparky's Sun Devil Star of the Week after she had the most important swing to date for ASU this season.

With those two leading the Sun Devil charge tomorrow when they open WCWS play against Oregon, do the Ducks have a chance? Check out our detailed match-up breakdown for more, and click here for all the details you need for ASU's run at a repeat.

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