By Chris Parker
Buffalo softball is poised for a big second spring softball season with four all-conference seniors returning to lead the team.
That quartet includes: shortstop Darby Armstrong (first-team all-conference), left fielder Jada Watson (first-team all-conference), catcher Bella Young (first-team all-conference) and centerfielder Dixie Gruber (second-team all-conference).
“Our senior leadership is outstanding and will be the framework for a successful season,” Buffalo head coach Dana Henderson said. “Last year, these four had a great season and are anxious to get back on the field to handle unfinished business.”
Armstrong hit .536 with a .612 on-base percentage. She had 35 RBI and 23 runs scored. Watson was on-base 42.9% of the time with 16 runs scored and 12 RBI. Young hit .357 but had an on-base percentage of .471 thanks to her team-high 11 walks. She also scored a team-high 28 runs. Gruber posted a .509 on-base percentage with 20 RBI and 15 runs scored.
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Sophomore Jaden Righter will be the top pitcher for Buffalo.
“As a freshman, Jaden started in six of our 19 games,” Henderson said. “She will bring some grit to the circle for us this season.”
Joining Righter, Young and Armstrong on the infield will be: Olyvia Williams (freshman, first base), Marlee Andrews (junior, second base), Keara Vastine (sophomore, second base), Madison Sapp (freshman, third base) and Kayli Wentz (sophomore, third base).
Seniors Anthea Maddux and Ava Maddux will join Watson and Gruber in the outfield.
“Offensively, we have aggressive base runners that make things happen and solid bats all the way through the line-up,” Henderson said.
Buffalo opens the season on Mar. 21 at home against Pleasant Hope.
