After posting an impressive record of 23-8 last season, the Lindbergh girls softball team returns nearly its entire starting lineup. One could only assume that the Flyers are in a position to have one of their best seasons in recent memory.
“Going into this season, we’ve only lost one senior from last year,” Lindbergh head coach Darin Scott said. “We have a lot of talented girls on this team and a lot of newcomers that are going to be fighting for a starting position every day. We’re definitely going to have a target on our back after last season.”
The Flyers are patiently waiting for the return of senior catcher Allie Waldron, who’s currently been out due to a hand injury. In 2023, Waldron batted .597 with 26 runs batted in. She also hit for power with an impressive 10 home runs while drawing 31 walks and just four strikeouts for the season.
“Allie is out currently with a fracture in her hand,” Scott said. “But we expect her to be back before the season starts.”
Lindbergh is also looking for senior pitcher Gabby McBride to have another outstanding season in the pitching circle. Last year, McBride posted a record of 15-6 overall with a 1.69 earned run average in which she struck out 168 batters in 137 innings pitched.
“Gabby was all-state two years ago and is a huge part of the puzzle for us this season,” Scott said. “We’re expecting her to have a phenomenal year.”
At first base, as well as pitcher, is sophomore Marlee Steiner. In 2023, Steiner batted .384 with 25 RBI.
Ava Hogan, a senior, will play first base and is the designated player. Last season, Hogan batted .386 with 35 RBI and five home runs.
“Ava hits the ball extremely hard, and I think she’s primed and ready to go,” Scott said. “We’re looking for some really big things from her this season.”
Patrolling center field is junior Kristen Cochran, who batted .300 with 25 RBI.
“Kristen did a really nice job hitting in the middle of the order last year,” Scott said. “She’s outstanding defensively, and her bat has come a long way this year.”
At second base is senior Rachel Branham, while junior MJ Abercrombie will fill the shortstop position.
“Rachel’s been a starter for us the last couple of years,” Scott said. “MJ’s a very capable player that does a really nice job for us.”