University of Hawai'i first baseman Tyleen Tausaga has found success thinking inside the box.

In recognition of her achievements as a power hitter who rarely strikes out, Tausaga was named to the Easton-Bell Sports All-America third team for softball.

"I was surprised," said Tausaga, a 2003 Kaimuki High School graduate. "I didn't think I would be selected. I do what I do, and let others decide (on awards)."

As the most dangerous slugger in the Rainbow Wahine lineup, Tausaga receives precious few middle-of-the-zone pitches. "After a while, the word got out, and people weren't pitching to her at all," UH coach Bob Coolen said.

Still, Tausaga managed to bat .373 — second-highest average among Western Athletic Conference starters in 2006 as a junior — as well as hit with power.

She slammed 10 home runs, tied for the WAC lead, and 22 of her 59 hits were for extra bases. Her slugging percentage was .639.

She struck out once every 11.3 at-bats; in contrast, her teammates struck out once every 5.5 at-bats. She had as many walks (14) as strikeouts.

"I feel good when I'm in the (batter's) box," Tausaga said. "I trust myself, and I trust my abilities. When I'm in there, I want to do something special to get the team going. That's what gets me going."

Tausaga has increased her hit total in each of the past two seasons.

"My goal is to do better than I did the previous year, even if it's one extra hit," Tausaga said.

In related news, Kristi Yoshizawa, a catcher who completed her NCAA eligibility last month, will remain with the Rainbows as a team manager next season. Yoshizawa, who led the WAC in fielding (no errors in 325 chances) in 2006, will travel with the team and receive a full scholarship.

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.