
“So far we have been hitting the ball very good,” said second-generation coach Scott Montgomery. “Our focus has been a lot more on hitting, driving the ball, turning singles into base hits. I really believe we will score a lot of runs.”
Outscored by 78 runs (177-99), Montgomery looks for improved hitting, pitching and defense.
Those goals begin with seniors in catcher Lexi Pendleton (.288), third baseman Alie Weaver (.304, 21 hits) and second baseman Carlee Rees (.288), soph center fielder Erniey Hurley (.333, 22 hits, 8 stolen bases), junior right fielder Lexi DeWester, infielders Savannah Doane and Vanessa Miller and junior pitchers Abby Pendleton (4-4) and Brittany Fisher.
Depth comes from seniors Allie Hicks and Regan Cranfill and juniors Erin Curran and Alexis Baker.
“We look young but we have a lot of experience and they know what to expect,” Montgomery said. “We lost a lot (graduation). I really think we can turn the corner this year.”
Montgomery remarked that the Cardinals have a lot of speed, hit the ball well and are solid defensively and on the mound. He expects the Cardinals to double their wins from last season.
“We won’t turn it completely around, but we’re ready to take a huge step,” Montgomery concluded.