Coaches

Abby Bolton

McPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson College Bulldogs softball program welcomes a new era Wednesday (Feb. 15) under new head coach Abby Bolton, as they take on Haskell Indian Nations University at Bulldog Park.


The Bulldogs return their top two pitchers, Raegan Kleppe and Jordyn Johnson. Kleppe finished the 2022 campaign with a 2.48 ERA and 141 strikeouts in 22 starts in the circle. Johnson finished with a 3.53 ERA and 95 strikeouts in her freshman season.


Other key returners include two of their top three hitters from a season ago. Lacy Weaver returns for her senior year and closed out the year, batting a team-high .376 with 37 RBIs. Mackenzie Egan is also back for her final season after posting a .303 batting average, five home runs, and a team-best 11 stolen bases.


The Bulldogs will also look to lean on a few newcomers this season.


"Tatyana Alvarado hit very well for us this fall and will be a solid defender at second base," Bolton said. "Kassidy 'Rowdy' New is an outfielder who also hit well this fall and has some pop in her bat. Melia Palmejar is a speedy slapper who can play multiple positions. And Amber Wood will help us at short stop, and also has pop in her bat."


The Bulldogs were picked to finish fourth in the KCAC Preseason Coaches' poll behind Ottawa, Friends, and Oklahoma Wesleyan.


"I am most looking forward to is watching the team continue to grow and see all their hard work pay off," Bolton said. "I have really enjoyed coaching this group, and I am looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish this season."


The Bulldogs open their KCAC schedule on Mar. 14 against Oklahoma Wesleyan.