By Pat Dailey (For OzarkSportsZone.com)
All the pieces appear to be in place for Ash Grove to post a third straight winning season and perhaps put together an extended post-season run.
The Lady Pirates feature returning starters from their 14-11 team a year ago all over their infield, outfield and the center circle.
“I believe this team can be very successful,” coach Austin Tipton said. “All the girls have high expectations and I do as well. They have been working hard over the offseason. Continuing that hard work will help them reach their goals.”
Tipton has the luxury of having two experienced pitchers to call upon in senior Jamalynn Atkinson and junior Meagan Hawkins. Hawkins fashioned a 3.75 ERA last season, while Atkins turned in a 3.79 ERA.
“I believe these two can be very solid for us,” Tipton said. “They were very impressive over the summer season. (We’re) also looking to get some time for sophomore Myah Johnson.”
A handful of Ash Grove’s returning starters battled over .300 last season. They helped the Lady Pirates average more than seven runs a game.
Ash Grove’s veterans in the infield include shortstop Ashlyn Gerla, second baseman Maddi Grube and third baseman Meagan Hawkins.
Last season, Gerla batted .397 and Grube hit .341. Gerla was an All-Southwest Conference First-Team selection.
“Ashlyn and Maddi are a solid pair in the middle of the infield,” Tipton said. “Meagan Hawkins plays a good hot corner and will be there when not pitching. Jamalynn Atkinson will be at first when not in the circle.”
Behind the plate is returning starting catcher Chelsye Graham, who is fresh from hitting .342.
Nakayla Gray, Sway Kenney and Myah Johnson will compete for playing time in the infield.
Ash Grove welcomes back left fielder Madison Lutz and center fielder Chelsey Adrus. Lutz batted .403 last season and Andrus hit .363.
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“I expect both Lutz and Andrus to hit well again this year and improve in the field where they already do a solid job,” Tipton said.
Desirae Gilliland and Marissa Andrus will vie for starts in the outfield, as well.
As long as Ash Grove’s health is good, Tipton is confident the Lady Pirates can be winners.
“I feel hitting and pitching should be strengths for us,” Tipton said. “A lot of the girls had pretty good seasons at the plate last year and I feel that there is room to take a step forward this year, too. I am very confident in having either Hawkins or Atkinson in the circle. Injuries are my main concern, as they can derail any team.”
Ash Grove will open with tournaments at Joplin and Mt. Vernon and will host its own tourney at the start of April.
