After struggling in 2025 with a record of 4-17, the Mehlville girls softball team is focused on 2026 being their bounce-back season.
“We’re bouncing back, and we’ve got a small roster, but we’re looking to recruit a few more kids for this year’s team,” Mehlville head coach Tim Ode said. “The good news is that our core is returning for this season.”
The Panthers will look to junior Abigail Dollens in the pitching circle this season after posting a record of 3-11 with a 10.68 earned run average (ERA). At the plate, she batted .227 with 13 runs batted in (RBI).
“Anytime you have a young player, you want to see that maturity grow with experience,” Ode said. “She’s increased her velocity, and we’re looking for her to be a leader on the field this season.”
Another junior to watch this season is Izzy Dollens at the shortstop position. In 2025, she posted a .200 batting average with eight RBI.
“Izzy was hindered last year with a shoulder issue,” Ode said. “She’s taken the steps to improve defensively, and I’m looking to also see an improvement in her hitting.”
Behind the plate for the Panthers this season is senior Kaylee Rodis, who batted an impressive .487 with 11 RBI. This will be Rodis’ fourth year on the Panthers’ varsity squad.
“Kaylee is a four-year starter for us, and she caught almost every inning for us last year,” Ode said. “I’m hoping that she can utilize her speed to get on base for us.”
At third base for the Panthers is sophomore Addison Wright. In 2025, Wright batted .268 with eight RBI.
“As she gets stronger and matures, she’s improving on the skills that she’s been lacking,” Ode said. “I’m hoping that correlates to success this year.”
Another player that the Panthers head coach has high hopes for this season is freshman Khloe Thomas, who should see time at first base and may also see action inside the pitcher’s circle.
“Khloe has a pretty solid bat, and I’m looking forward to having her on the team this year,” Ode said. “I’m hoping that she can help figure things out for us this year.”
The Panthers start their 2026 season at Fox High School on Aug. 31.