By BUTCH HARMON
The St. Johns softball team finished the season strong last spring and is looking to carry over that success to this season.
The Redwings placed second in the CAAC Red last year with a 17-13 overall record and 7-3 league mark. Expectations are high for this year.
“With seven returners from a year ago, it looks to be a more consistent year,” coach Barry Palmer said. “We possess a lot of versatility, with players that can play a lot of positions. With three pitchers at our disposal, it will make for a fun and promising season.”
The team is led by a trio of players returning for their third year as varsity starters. Claire Whitford (2B/SS) is a senior captain who earned all-league and all-district honors last season. Junior Kayleigh Smith (P/OF) is one of the top returning players in the league. She also earned all-league and all-district honors last season. Senior Carlie Smith (OF) is the last member of the trio.
Seniors Madi Webster (1B) and Anna Seman (3B/OF) are back for their second years as starters. Junior Alex Davis (OF/1B) is a returning starter with good versatility. Sophomores Adriannn Simison (C) and Brooke Mazzolini (2B/OF) are two more returning starters. Simison earned honorable-mention all-league honors last year.
The Redwings also have a number of promising newcomers. Montana Barnard (P/OF/3B) is sophomore who can play a variety of positions. Freshmen Jamie Carroll (SS), Kendall Smith (OF/3B), and Lauren Bates (P) give the squad even more depth.