@MizzouSoftball Practice Report (Jan. 12, 2017)
1/12/2017 9:46:00 AM | Softball
The Tigers continue work in their first week of official practice
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou Softball officially kicked off its preparation for the 2017 campaign on Monday, Jan. 9, with a special midnight practice. Beginning with their unique first practice, the Tigers will have roughly a month to prepare for their season opener at the Charleston Southern Tournament (Feb. 10-12).
Throughout Mizzou's practice schedule, Assistant Director of Strategic Communications Andy Oldenburg will provide practice reports to give Tigers fans exclusive glimpses into the team's progress.
Tuesday, Jan. 10
- Although the team didn't partake in an official practice with coaches in attendance, the ladies met alone inside Devine Pavilion for a "Captain's Practice"
- In short, a captain's practice is led by seniors Cheyenne Baxter, Natalie Fleming, Kirsten Mack and Chloe Rathburn. The team leaders decide on specific drills to work on and bestow wisdom on the newcomers as they continue to learn the ins-and-outs of the program
- Specific drills included outfielders and infielders drills and situational defense (example: runners on 1st and 3rd, 2-out defense, etc.)
- Next, individuals who fell short in passing their 300's conditioning tests on Monday had another opportunity to pass on this day
- Behind abundant cheering and encouragement from their teammates, sophomore Danielle Baumgartner and freshman Cayla Kessinger passed their 300's and were granted the ability to begin practicing with the team
- Following a successful captain's practice, the girls made the quick trek from Devine to the MATC for a strength and conditioning session with Senior Director of Athletic Performance Rusty Burney
Wednesday, Jan. 11
- The Tigers returned to a "normal" practice routine inside Devine with Coach Ehren Earleywine, Gina Schneider and Adam LaLonde leading the way
- With the unseasonal warm temperatures in Columbia, Mo., Coach Schneider took advantage and led outfield work outside with Kessinger, Fleming and sophomore Rylee Pierce at University Field
- Back inside at Devine, Coach LaLonde led pitching drills with Baxter, sophomore Danielle Baumgartner and the latest Tiger to pass 300's conditioning, redshirt sophomore Madi Norman
- Baxter, Baumgartner and Norman would throw live batting practice for the first time this practice season, limited to about 30-40 pitches each
- Among the Tigers hitters squaring off against the pitching trio were redshirt freshman Jolie Duffner, sophomore Kolby Romaine and Fleming.
- After an injury-laden 2016 junior campaign, Fleming is back healthy for the Tigers and has impressed thus far in practice. Whether it's simple BP sessions or against live pitching, Fleming continues to show off her fantastic natural power, which is arguably some of the best on the team
- Among the Tigers' hurlers in live BP, Baumgartner already looked to be in midseason form, fooling Tigers' hitters with her impressive change of speed
Visit MUTigers.com for the latest information on all things Mizzou Softball. You can also find the Tigers on social media by liking us on Facebook (University of Missouri Softball Team) and following us on Twitter and Instagram (@MizzouSoftball).
