The Solanco softball team is poised to have another successful season. Last year, the Mules finished 12-7 and captured the Section Two title. Senior pitcher Kalyn Burger was the workhorse last year, recording 11 victories and compiling a 1.87 ERA in 116 1/3 innings pitched. "Kalyn has been working through some injuries but that will be resolved soon," said Miller. Freshman Hannah Phillips is challenging for time in the circle. "I don't know how [the innings] will divide out," said Fish. "We'll find our way through it as we go."
Bekah Borcky returns behind the plate. Borcky is coming off an All-Star junior season when she was third on the team with a .296 batting average, tied for team lead with 16 hits, and second with 17 RBIs. Equally as important, Borcky is a solid defensive catcher. "It's nice to be able to have a veteran pitcher and returning catcher. And when you're using a young pitcher, it's nice to have a seasoned player behind the plate. She's a calming force." Sydney Sturgill will be starting at first base and assume a bigger role in the offense. Last year, Sturgill drew 11 walks and was third on the team with 15 runs scored. "We're going to move Sydney up in the order," Miller said. "She's showing all the signs of being a good leader." At second base, freshman Kate Sheaffer is replacing her sister, Madi, who was a three-year starter. "Kate shows a great deal of strength in the position," Miller said. "It's all about the ability to perform defensively, and Kate is coming along. All she has to do is make the plays and she'll be a contributor." Sophomore shortstop Randi Rambo replaces four-year starter Maribeth Ault. "Randi has been a pleasant surprise," Miller said. "She has a good arm and has been consistent. She has the qualities you look for in a shortstop." Allison McDowell returns at shortstop. McDowell moved up to varsity during her freshman season and fit in immediately. "Ali has all the ability," Miller said. "She just has to continue to mature to the varsity level. She shows all the signs of being able to do that." Senior Cait Armstrong, who has pitched and played the infield, has found a new home in left field. "Cait is fitting in rather well," Miller said. "She has improved her foot speed and has the arm strength. She has the ability to play a solid outfield. And she can be one of the better hitters in the entire section." Junior centerfielder Abby Heidelbaugh will be starting for the third straight season. Last year, Heidelbaugh was second on the team with a .304 batting average, third in RBIs (13), and first in runs scored (30), and walks (18). "Abby works exceptionally hard and has all the attributes you need," Miller said. Junior Brianna Firlein is slated to start in left field. "Brianna has pretty good offensive potential," said Miller. "She has a really strong arm and covers enough ground." Sophomore Liz Mowrer adds a big bat to the lineup. Mowrer is a transfer from Columbia where she was a Section Four All-Star as a freshman. "With her offensive potential, she's going to have to be in the lineup somewhere," said Miller. "She can be the DP and hopefully we'll get her a few innings in the field." Albrea Doss will play an important role for the Mules as a courtesy runner. "She is an exceptional runner and has a lot of experience," said Miller. Sophomore outfielder Alyssa Henretty and sophomore infielder Molly Chew also add speed to the roster. Freshman outfielder Kara McClune will also contribute. "Kara has good technique and we feel good about getting her in some games," Miller said. Solanco has won 15 section titles in Miller's 27 years at the helm and will be in the hunt again. "We have the potential to compete in the section," said Miller. "We have a good blend of experienced players and young players who have the ability. They just have to get to a varsity level of maturity. There's a huge difference between JV and varsity and travel ball and varsity. And any time you have young players in key defensive positions, you have to work extra hard." Comments are closed.
|
Archives
August 2023
Categories
All
|