the question is whether the argument would have merit. I am going from memory here but seems like despite their 54-3 record they had 1 Top 10 win and 3 Top 25 wins and a strength of schedule of around 115. The minimum numbers for the Top 16 seeds were I think 3 top 10 wins, 5 top 25 wins and most importantly a strength of schedule around 36 and those metrics would say there is at least room for debate. The second consideration is the facility and the bid to host and that includes factors such as weather, attendance, travel for the other 3 teams in the sub regional, etc.. I agree 54-3 is a strong record and worthy of consideration, however, I also recognize there could be any number of factors making a Top 16 seed and host role not a slam dunk. Maybe Sportsman or another of the more knowledgeable softball posters here can provide further insight.