By Chris Parker
Senior leadership will be key for an Ash Grove softball team that returns six players from the 2019 squad.
“We are expecting our seniors to lead us on and off the field,” Ash Grove head coach Pam Swift said. “Seniors include Briley Bagley (INF/OF). Briley is a multi-sport athlete that can play nine positions on the field. Briley likely will help strengthen our outfield this season and adds a lot of speed to the bases. Emma Eagleburger (INF) is another multiple sport athlete that hits for power and has two years’ experience at first base. Alexis Long (OF) is a hard working utility player that is expected to contribute with her bat and glove. Mackenzie Lutz (INF) has two years’ experience in the infield and will help strengthen the lineup.”
Eagleburger earned all-district honors in 2019 after she hit .350 for the season. Bagley returns after leading the team in stolen bases with 20 in 2019.
Junior Maddie Mobley returns to the circle after being responsible for most of the innings as a freshman. She accounted for 110 of 133 innings pitched two years ago. Freshman Meagan Hawkins will also share innings in the circle.
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Junior Emma McClelland and freshman Chelsye Grahm are all in the mix to start at catcher.
Sophomores Chelsey Andrus (OF), Renley Bagley (OF), Nakayla Gray (INF) Savanna Pratt (INF/OF) along with freshmen Morgan Crow (INF), Ashlyn Gerla (INF/OF), Maddi Grube (INF/OF), Sway Kenney (INF/OF) Madison Lutz (OF) and Kadie Sontheimer (INF/OF) will provide depth to the team.
“The strength of this team will lie in the depth of our players. We are expecting to see a lot of competition for starting spots. Many of our young players bring a lot of experience to the field,” Swift said. “In order to succeed this group will need to learn to work together quickly and accept their roles within the team. High school seasons are so short we won’t have any time to waste.”
Ash Grove opens the season on Mar. 22 at Verona.
“My expectations are very high for this season,” Swift said. “We should have many opportunities to succeed and enjoy a winning season.”
