The Woodmen scored six runs per game last year with power hitting, but coach Greg Norwood has only three hitters who averaged over .300.
“We’re not going to be able to win games by six or seven runs; we’re going to have to win by one or two,” veteran coach Greg Norwood said. “We have to be as perfect as we can be.”
The hitting trio consists of senior/four-year starter Ryan Bauer at second base (.381, 32 hits) and sophomores in catcher Alexis Rees (.342, 26 hits) and shortstop Allison Hayes (.315, 23 hits). Norwood expects the two sophomores to be stronger at the plate this season.
Senior Emily Struewing takes over first base for graduated Paige Wilson. Two outfield spots belong to Rachel Derf and Olivia Daugherty. Senior center fielder Alaina LaBranche takes over for junior Samantha DeCastro (.486. 24 RBIs), who transferred to Mid-State rival Franklin.
Norwood is rebuilding the pitching staff after graduating Megan Overton (15-7, 1.65 ERA).
“The kids are working hard; they have a positive attitude,” he said. “If we’re going to win games, we’re going to have to do it with the little things – it’s all about effort.”