As the cold weather is on its way out it is time to get ready for the spring season and with that, softball season.
This week’s focus is going to be the Weimar Ladycats, whose season ended last year Shiner in the semi-final round.
Shiner went on to win the championship so it’s not too bad of a loss when you lose to the eventual champs. But, when it is a district rival, it definitely left a sour taste in the Ladycats mouth.
So, they are coming into the year with high expectations of getting into the playoffs and making a push for the State title. They have a good chance to do so too because 11 of the 13 players on the roster this season are returning this season.
One of which is ace pitcher, Taylor Smith, Smith’s arm was a big story for the Ladycats last season. Smith was also a big-time hitter for the Ladycats, so she is going to be looking to be even better in her senior year.
Smith’s arm talent in the circle for the Ladycats is truly impressive but it also shows the Ladycats lack of pitching depth. If they are going to find success this season, they are going to need someone to step up in the circle and give Smith a couple of nights off and keep her as healthy as possible for the playoffs.
As for the infield two big time players are returning in Bevin Brenner and Tate Griffin. Griffin is a huge returner because she is such a dynamic short stop. She made the All-District team, and she is one of the best runners on the bases in the county.
As for Brenner, she is the ideal first baseman, tall, athletic and one of the smartest defenders. She will be looking to produce a little bit more offensively and take the next step in her development, and it is a very obtainable goal for her.
Couple that with the return of leaders on the team like Claire Pavlu, Faith Cantwell, Madison Luckey, and Alazay Moreno, and the Ladycats are set up for success. Their season will officially start on Tuesday, Feb. 11, when they take on Sealy in Sealy.