Walnut Grove has seven starters and nine lettermen returning from last season’s 13-11 squad.
One key starter that Walnut Grove must replace is all-region selection Ellie Smith at pitcher.
“Pitching will be our biggest struggle,” Walnut Grove head coach Jeremy Smith said. “We lost a four-year all conference pitcher. She left a big hole to fill.”
Smith pitched 131 of 137.2 innings last season striking out 176.
Senior Kaylea Dougherty will take over pitching duties with sophomore Kyndal Henry behind the plate catching. Dougherty threw the other 5.2 innings last season. At the plate, she hit .200 in 15 games (39 plate appearances). Henry posted a .413 on-base percentage with 19 runs scored.
The infield will feature Ashtyn Anderson (third base), Maeli Holman (shortstop) and Sabrina Loehr (right side). Anderson hit .282 with 12 RBI and 11 runs scored. Holman had a 1.146 OPS with seven doubles, three home runs, 23 RBI and 31 runs scored. Loehr had 12 RBI and 16 runs scored.
Kolbi Albert (junior left field) and Kenna Tuter (senior centerfield) will be in the outfield. Albert had a.397 batting average with 30 RBI and 17 runs scored. Tuter posted a 1.013 OPS with eight doubles, 18 RBI and 28 runs scored.
There are several players in the mix to fill the open right field spot.
“We have several players coming off the bench that will see playing time,” Smith said. “We have an opening in right field, and it will come down to who wants it more.”
Walnut Grove opens the regular season on Aug. 30 at the Halfway Tournament.
