Preview: Softball Heavy On Freshmen

The PCC women’s softball team is hoping to better its 2008 record of 13-24 as it gears up for the 2009 campaign in the always challenging South Coast Conference.This season’s team claims a roster of 14 freshmen and three returning sophomores. Third-year coach Elaine Martinez expressed no worry on having a team overflowing with first-year players.

“With only three returning players, I have a very young team. It’s positive because I’m looking for the next two years to be strong ones,” said Martinez.

Overall the roster tops off with 17 players and shows strong chemistry.

“The girls are meshing well and no cliques have surfaced. We had a transfer player and a volleyball player join the team and they’ve been taken in with no problems,” Martinez said.

No captains have been designated, but returning sophomores Melissa O’Connor, Rachel Diaz, and Lauren Meza are expected to assume leadership positions.

O’Connor comes back as the team’s ace pitcher. She started 34 games last season with a 4.56 ERA and a 10-23 record. She finished with 65 strikeouts, 29 complete games, and 2 shutouts.

“Melissa is a workhorse. I’m looking for her to have a great season on the mound,” said Martinez about.

The biggest void to fill is that of last season’s 3rd baseman, Jessica Torres. She led the team with 40 hits, 10 doubles, 4 home runs, 28 RBIs and a .364 batting average.

“This team loves to work and are very eager. A handful of the girls have the ability to step up,” said Martinez.

The Lancers are in perhaps the toughest conference in California. The South Coast Conference is home to top ranked schools Mt. SAC, Cerritos, and Long Beach. The Lancers play each school three times this season. Martinez expects those nine games to test the team’s toughness.

The Lancers open the season against Golden West at Golden West College in Huntington Beach on Jan 27.