The Southside Lady Southerners finished last season playing some of their best softball late in the year, placing third in the conference and finishing as regional runner-up before falling in the first round of the state tournament. Head coach Lexi McClellan hopes that momentum will carry into the 2026 season as several experienced players return to the lineup. Offensively, Southside returns a deep group of contributors. Kaitlyn Roberts provides power in the lineup while playing one of the corner infield positions. Kylie Roberts adds speed and versatility, catching or playing second base while stealing 34 bases last season. Abby Tucker anchors the left side of the infield and has a reputation for delivering key hits with runners in scoring position. Outfielders Alyssa Haigwood and Leslie Crenshaw bring defensive range and speed, although Crenshaw is expected to miss much of the season due to injury. Additional contributors include Abbi Barnes, who is aggressive on the bases, and Leighsa Belli, a strong contact hitter returning from injury. In the circle, Southside will feature multiple pitching options. Seniors Haley Rea and Darby Martin will see significant time on the mound along with freshman Jada Adams. Rea returns with a five-pitch mix, while Martin provides a different pace that keeps hitters off balance. Adams adds another unique look with her left-handed sidearm delivery. Freshmen Maleigh Goffin, Kaylee Gould, and Ava Haigwood could also provide depth to the roster throughout the season. For Southside, success will depend on health, consistency, and the team’ s ability to manufacture runs with speed and aggressive base running. With multiple pitching options and a competitive lineup, the Lady Southerners could be a dangerous team late in the season.
After finishing 16 – 15 and reaching the first round of the state tournament, the Southside Southerners look to build on last year’ s postseason appearance. Head Coach Greyson Pinkett returns key playmakers to Southside High School and believes this year’ s group can thrive by playing fast, aggressive baseball. Southside’ s lineup will be built around versatility and grit. Devan Hightower( SS / P) projects to hit in the top three spots in the order. A high-IQ competitor, Hightower is known for doing whatever it takes to reach base and create scoring opportunities. His scrappy style sets the tone for the Southerners’ attack. Wyatt Bishop, a utility standout, will anchor a top-four lineup role thanks to his disciplined plate approach and mature at-bats. His ability to control the strike zone provides stability in the middle of the order. Blaine Baxter( OF / P) brings a lefthanded presence to the top of the lineup. With plus speed and a small-ball mindset, Baxter pressures defenses but also has the ability to drive the ball to all fields when needed. Hightower headlines the pitching staff after posting 50.2 innings with 85 strikeouts last season. Sitting 85 – 87 mph with electric life and advanced spin rates across his pitch mix, he gives Southside a true frontline arm capable of dominating outings. Baxter complements him as a lefty with a three-pitch mix and the confidence to throw any pitch in any count, giving opponents a different look and tempo. Sophomore Bryson VanWinkle is expected to contribute both in the outfield and on the mound. His athleticism and competitive edge could play a key role as he gains experience. Behind the plate, sophomore Bristol Beal is stepping into a larger catching role, bringing feel, toughness, and competitiveness to the position. Southside may not have the same level of experience as previous seasons, but their identity is clear: apply pressure and create chaos. The Southerners will be at their best when they control the controllable, play with energy, and refuse to let the moment speed up on them. If they embrace that mindset, Southside has the tools to turn close games into wins and make another postseason push in 2026.
After finishing 12 – 10 last season, the Rivercrest Lady Colts return a strong core under head coach Jacob Rose at Rivercrest High School. With experience across the diamond and a renewed emphasis on defense, Rivercrest believes it can take another step forward this spring. AJ Johnson, last year’ s leadoff hitter, moves to third base and brings grit, toughness, and a strong arm to the left side of the infield. Senior shortstop Karlee Cullom anchors the defense with excellent glove work, range, and leadership qualities that set the tone for the team. Behind the plate, Ella Gonzalez provides stability and trust. A strong presence defensively, she moves well and is relied upon to help manage the game. Offensively, she’ s expected to be a key bat in the lineup. Hannah Higgins offers versatility, splitting time between second base and the outfield. A contact-heavy hitter with strong hand-eye coordination, she consistently finds ways to get on base. In the outfield, Zoiey Fox brings experience and strong reads on the ball, while senior Molli Austin adds power at first base with a swing capable of doing serious damage. Katey Ostendorf is expected to log significant innings this season. When she locates her pitches effectively, the Lady Colts are difficult to beat. Higgins and Halyn Belford add depth in the circle, giving Rivercrest multiple options and different looks throughout the season. Senior Halyn Belford will see time at second base and in the outfield, adding experience and versatility. Sophomore Olivia Ostendorf is developing at first base and could provide a major offensive boost. Lani Latham, another sophomore, brings speed and hustle to the outfield— never afraid to lay out and make a play. Rivercrest’ s identity centers on defense and team culture. The Lady Colts know hitting may fluctuate, but defensive consistency cannot. Limiting mental and physical mistakes, capitalizing on opponents’ errors, and embracing defined roles will be crucial. If Rivercrest commits to being a team of selfless competitors who lift each other up, they have the pieces to compete consistently throughout 2026.