Yes competition was not good outside of Pfieffer, but even they didn't play particularly well. Freshman contributed, especially with Davenport and Nolan still out while rehabbing from their surgeries. Eberle was dominant on the mound and clearly not only healed from surgery but ready for a big year. Freshman pitchers were effective and none of the pitchers allowed an earned run. Rochard and Dail will need to be wary of walks especially as the season strike zone shrinks, but their riseballs and changeups were effective this Fall. Hitting wise, Strouth looked strong as usual as did Schoenwald who perhaps hit the best this Fall. Lattin was key in the leadoff postion too.
Freshmen Davis, Miller, and Barrett all "started" and played key roles at the plate and Barrett flashed the glove at SS. Trull handled the bat very well too and has good speed. Defense was solid, but particularly a huge lift defensively with Juco transfer Sierra Walton behind the plate. Her ability to frame pitches, block balls, etc was great to see. Her bat needs some work, but that's okay. Small ball was vastly improved as well with some new speed and well timed bunts as well. Lots to work on but a good foundation built from the Fall. This team needs to hit more, especially needing Davenports bat and leadership....and then the freshman have to develop and adapt to the clear differences of college softball -- pitchers and hitters alike. But there is some optimism for sure.