Graham Hays Ranks Husky Softball No. 15

By Athletic Communications on January 26, 2011 1:07 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

No. 15 Washington
Last season: 50-9, lost in Women's College World Series

Who returns: At the top of the list is a Canadian Olympian who rates among the very best at her position in the last decade or so. That is, of course, shortstop Jenn Salling. In her first full season on the field for the Huskies, Salling posted a 1.051 OPS, was perfect on the bases in 14 stolen base attempts and committed just six errors. Niki WIlliams edged out Salling for the team batting title with a .357 average (and 1.038 OPS), and Kimi Pohlman erased the first word in "potential star" by hitting .347 with gap power and 22 stolen bases as a sophomore. Morgan Stuart endured a tough season at the plate but remains one of the very best with the glove at third base.

Who departs: At the top of the list is a Canadian Olympian who rates among the very best at her position in the last decade or so. Actually, forget the last decade; Danielle Lawrie rates as one of the best pitchers in the history of the college game, dominating hitters at a time when aces like her seem to be a vanishing breed. But the Huskies also lost one of their best run producers at the plate: Danielle Lawrie. The two-time Player of the Year led Washington last season in slugging percentage, home runs and RBIs. Amanda Fleischman, Bailey Stenson and Alyson McWherter were also integral parts of back-to-back World Series appearances.

Sophomore first baseman Hooch Fagaly is an unexpected loss. After posting a .442 on-base percentage as a freshman, Fagaly could miss the entire season with an injury.

Who arrives: Among the freshmen generating the most buzz are first baseman/pitcher Kaitlin Inglesby, pitcher/outfielder Whitney Jones and outfielder Victoria Hayward, the last apparently yet another gem from the Canadian national team (by way of high school in California).

Complete breakdown: http://espn.go.com/ncaa/blog/_/name/college_sports/id/6053471/washington-looks-life-lawrie