While the state tournament is in its final eight, and the start of the 2020 softball season is still more than 8 months from getting underway, it is still fun to take a minute and look at who the 2nd Region contenders might be come May of 2020. Of course, all of these thoughts could be changed by injury or transfers between now and the start of next season. But anyway, here is a look at our “Way Too Early 2nd Region Softball Super 7” for 2020.
1 Lyon County (26-13) – The Lady Lyons reached the regional final this year and won the 2nd Region All A Classic. And note, they are set to lose no one to graduation off this year’s roster. Plus, they will only have two seniors on next year’s squad, so this team is positioned for a couple of strong seasons ahead. Look for Calista Collins and Sydney Melton to have big years in 2020.
2 Henderson County (26-8) – The northern Lady Colonels were somewhat the surprise team of the region in 2019. While many thought they would be improved, 26 wins was a big step back up for this program. Hattie Hartman is a big loss for Henderson, but she is one of only two seniors on this squad, which has them set to contend in 2020. Could be very dangerous next year.
3 Christian County (28-9) – A stunning loss to end the season this year, and the loss of four integral seniors, along with their coach, would be enough to criple a lot of programs. What gives Christian County a slight edge over Webster and Madisonville in this look ahead, is the return of three pitchers who saw action in 2019. Add in the return of Reni Shemwell, Hope Jones, Pickle Winkler, and some young talent on the way, and the cupboard is far from bare for the new coach.
4 Madisonville (24-9) – For starters, the 2nd Region champs lose Courtney Patterson. That is a big loss. Plus, Makayla Spurlin, Bailey Woodward, Jayda Perkins, and Gracie Arnold move on as well. But, before you get too sad for the Lady Maroons, remember the Peyton twins return, as does freshman Amber Osborne and 8th grader Zoe Davis. Pitching will go a long way to determine if the Lady Maroons make another run.
5 Webster County (27-11) – Big losses for the Lady Trojans, as they say farewell to five seniors, including 2nd Region “Player of the Year” Karlie Keeney. While the loss of Keeney in the circle hurts, they may be better equipped to deal with that than the loss of her bat. Grace Scott stands in the wings to become their #1 hurler. The question for the Lady Trojans will be whether or not they can develop enough offense with the losses of Keeney, Kayla Yates, Rylee Warford, Madison Durbin, and Kerstin Braden.
6 Caldwell County (17-13) – After being stunned by Lyon County in the opening round of the region, it will be a bit of a reload for the Lady Tigers next season. There are some weapons returning with Madi Choate, Allie Felker, Majah Hollowell, and Karlie Rennison coming back. But, finding a pitcher who can take over a game like Katie Franklin could, and a player that can cause other teams to adjust like Mashea Glover would will be key for the Lady Tigers.
7 Crittenden County (16-14) – The Lady Rockets graduate one senior off the roster. Plus, the expected return of Chandler Moss, could make Crittenden County a dark horse coming out of the gate next season. They will have to contend with Lyon County in their own district, but the Lady Rockets should take a step up from where they finished the 2019 season.