By Pat Dailey (For OzarkSportsZone.com)
Former Drury catcher Alyssa Sargent has an all-state catcher at the top of her lineup and in a primary leadership role for El Dorado Springs.
Wriley Taylor is returning for the Bulldogs for her junior season this spring and is among the reasons they are brimming with optimism.
Taylor was a Class 2 All-State Second-Team catcher last year, as El Dorado Springs’ first go-around in spring ball saw the Bulldogs win 10 straight games during one stretch and finish 19-6.
“Wriley is an all-around great athlete who loves to compete and will give 110 percent every single time she steps onto the field,” said Sargent, who caught for Drury from 2015-2016. “We expect her to take charge behind the plate and be a leader for our pitchers. Offensively, we expect her to lead off and give us good quality at bats.”
Taylor’s battery mates are both back. Kyie Hutsell and Macie Mays will give opposing hitters contrasting looks in the center circle.
“Our hopes for them will be to continue their success in the circle,” Sargent said. “They are two totally different pitchers and we will use that to our advantage.”
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Mays will be at shortstop when not pitching and Hutsell will be at third base when not pitching.
More returning players include infielders Reese Schaf, Abby Larsen, Dani Ogle and Tenlie Steward and outfielders Lexi Reasoner, Keylie Steward, Ryan Eiskina and Gracie Mead, along with utility player Lily Taylor.
“We expect to have a well-rounded, experienced infield and outfield,” Sargent said. “All nine positions will be filled with athletes who can compete in all positions and have a great understanding of the game.
“We have high expectations for the girls,” she added. “We are experienced and have a good understanding of the game. We as a group have played very well together the last few years and expect to keep building the program in the right direction.”
Freshmen Lily Taylor and Carly Thompson and senior Reese Scaff also figure to be in the mix.
“(They) will make an impact for us,” Sargent said. “We are excited to add this group of freshmen and see what their success is like.”
