Last year’s version of the Lady Bulldogs’ fast-pitch team finished fourth in their district with an 11-20 record.

Four seniors were lost to graduation in Marisa Northrup, Abi Clifton, Kiely Givens andAbby Sample.

This year Baylee Rillema is the lone senior.

“Baylee will play just about everywhere. She’ll catch, play first base and some outfield,” head coach Monty Ervin said.

Ervin said his team is junior heavy – seven of them on the team.

He feels good about his pitching staff. Junior Hannah Garrett got good experience last year and that will prove helpful. Fellow junior Brodie Anderson will also see time in the circle.

“Brodie has had some injuries but she’s getting her confidence back and we’ll need her.”

Short stop is set as junior Mackenzie Manuel will hold down the middle infield.

The other four juniors – Lexie Torres, Kora Parker, Jocelyn Senn and Isabella Stough – will factor in on defense also.

Torres and Senn will bring speed to the outfield and the top of the lineup. Parker can handle the corners in the infield and will see time behind the plate also.

“The maturity of our junior class will figure into all that we do. And, I know that our younger girls have the softball IQ and with experience they will solidify their positions,” Ervin said.

“Some of the freshman are going to have to step up and fill the voids. That may mean we will have some tough times. We have a good nucleus and we’ll find the missing pieces.”

Ervin mentioned their district and how tough it will be. Included are Lindsay, with several returning starters, Heritage Hall and Jones.

“We’ll have to focus on us. We can only worry about what we’re doing,” Ervin said.

The head coach said he’s thankful to have his wife, Jeanice, on board.

“My wife does a great job. She’s helpful and really helps this ship keep sailing,” Ervin said.

The Lexington Lady Bulldogs kick off their season hosting Holdenville Monday, August 12. They were also invited to the Ripley tournament. That will be played next Thursday, August 15 and includes Kiefer, Hominy and Dale.

“We have some things up in the air, but I’m excited about our potential on defense and I know we have strong bats at the top of our line up. The rest will come with experience,” Ervin said.