2025 Softball Season Preview
As the Mount Mercy Mustangs softball team prepares for the 2025 season, they look to build on a solid 25-23 campaign last year, which included a 13-11 record in conference play. With key returners bolstering the lineup and an infusion of new talent, the Mustangs aim to remain competitive in the Heart of America Athletic Conference.
Returning Core Provides Stability
The Mustangs return several key players who played significant roles in the 2024 season. Catcher Calli Janik headlines the group after an impressive .326 batting average, five home runs, and 32 RBIs last season. She also provided steady defense behind the plate, posting a .975 fielding percentage while managing the pitching staff.
Outfielder Ashley Smith returns after hitting .319 with a .392 on-base percentage, leading the team in stolen bases with 15 swipes in 17 attempts. Her ability to reach base and create scoring opportunities will be pivotal for the Mustangs' offensive approach.
In the circle, senior right-hander Alyssa McElvain anchors the pitching staff following a strong 2024 season in which she led the team with a 2.93 ERA over 138.2 innings pitched. McElvain finished with a 12-10 record, 70 strikeouts, and six shutouts. Her ability to keep opposing hitters in check will be crucial to Mount Mercy's success.
Replacing Key Departures
The Mustangs will need to fill the void left by key contributors who graduated or moved on, including power hitter Keily Ulatowski, who led the team in slugging percentage (.568) while hitting six home runs and driving in 30 runs. Natalie Tecklenburg also departs after posting a .277 batting average and providing steady defense with a .987 fielding percentage.
Additionally, the Mustangs lose Allie Poston, who contributed six home runs and 25 RBIs, and versatile infielder Sam Lee, who played in 48 games and posted a .268 batting average. Their departures leave opportunities for new and returning players to step up in the infield and at the plate.
Newcomers Look to Make an Impact
Mount Mercy adds several new players who could contribute immediately. Freshman infielder Kendra Mescher brings versatility to the middle infield, while transfer Ashley Webb looks to add depth to the infield after previously playing at Ferris State University.
Junior utility player Maggie McNally, a transfer from Johnson County Community College, also joins the roster. Her ability to play multiple positions gives the coaching staff flexibility in shaping the lineup throughout the season.
Offensive and Defensive Outlook
Offensively, the Mustangs look to maintain their production after hitting .278 as a team last season. They were aggressive on the basepaths, swiping 45 bases in 50 attempts. However, they will need to replace some of their lost power production, as three of their top four home run hitters have moved on.
Defensively, Mount Mercy posted a .954 fielding percentage in 2024, turning four double plays while allowing opponents to steal 55 bases in 70 attempts. Improved defensive efficiency will be a key focus, particularly in controlling the running game.
Pitching Staff Poised for Success
McElvain leads a pitching staff that posted a 3.61 team ERA last season. The Mustangs will look for more consistency from their arms, especially after opponents hit .297 against them in 2024. With McElvain's experience and potential contributions from newcomers, Mount Mercy hopes to improve upon its pitching depth.
Season Expectations
The Mustangs return a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, setting them up for another competitive season in the Heart of America Athletic Conference. With strong pitching, an aggressive offensive approach, and defensive improvements, Mount Mercy looks to push for a winning record and a deep postseason run.
As the season unfolds, the Mustangs will need their returning stars to lead while new contributors step up to fill key roles. If they can execute in critical moments and maintain consistency in all facets of the game, they will be a formidable team in the conference once again.