Lady Cats Open Season February 17
Bethel University 2024 Softball Preview
The Bethel University Lady Wildcat softball squad returns 14 players for the 2024 season. The Cats finished 21-21 overall last season and were 11-12 in Mid-South Conference play.
Several key members return but the Cats will need to replace four lost starters.
Maria Murdaugh and Kennedy Gillespie are a senior duo that will be tough to beat in 2024. The senior duo combined for 60 RBIs last season and are a core that will make every pitching staff in the Mid-South lose sleep at night.
Emma Johnson, Miranda Carnell, Kinsley Caruthers, and Madison Carey, will provide stability to a lineup ready to produce at a high level. Senior Kalani Kuroda and Junior Kirsten Eversole will add power and utility to a do it all lineup for the Wildcats.
Lauren Reimsnyder, Kinsley Caruthers, and Kaylie McKinley will be leaned on often as generals on the field and in the circle.
Newcomers showing glimpses of greatness this fall include Briley Avenshine, Shelbe Sisk, Kellie Warren and Claudia Peneda who all could see action on offense. The Lady Wildcats will be looking to improve offensively after posting a .362 on base percentage in the spring of 2023.
Defensively, the outfield will be anchored by Murdaugh while several others are vying for the second and third spots. There are several options on the infield with Eversole, Gillespie, Johnson, Carey, Alton, Cooner, and Carnell.
Returning to the pitching arsenal are Caruthers, Kuroda and Reimsnyder. Returner McKinley is coming off an injury but could see action early in the season.
First year Head Coach Katherine Hannagan has taken her knowledge as a former All-American Pitcher at the NAIA level to take the current stable of arms to the next level.
Hannagan commented, "The pitchers have really worked hard this fall and winter embracing an aggressive philosophy and approach on the mound. They went through rigorous workouts and spent a lot of time studying their craft to be in the best shape mentally and physically. Our pitchers will play to their strengths and attack each hitter starting with the first pitch. I am very excited to see them play and put all aspects of the game together."
Coach Hannagan is assisted by 1st year assistant coach, Ally Silva.
The 2024 schedule is highlighted by a tough MSC slate along with several national non-conference powers.
For more on the Lady Cats visit:
https://bethelathletics.com/sports/sball/index