As the 2024 college softball season kicks off, all eyes are on the No. 3 ranked Florida State Seminoles, and for good reason. This powerhouse team is primed and ready to dominate the field once again, boasting an impressive lineup of returning offensive firepower and a formidable pitching rotation.
What sets Florida State apart this season is the retention of their entire offensive core. Seven of their top nine hitters, including all three sluggers who notched double-digit home runs, are back in action. Leading the charge is Jahni Kerr, who showcased her prowess with a remarkable .356/.389/.560 slash line, accompanied by 15 doubles and 40 RBIs. Joining her is Kaley Mudge, a force to be reckoned with at the plate, boasting a .346 average, 18 doubles, and 43 RBIs. Devyn Flaherty and Kalei Harding add depth to the lineup with their consistent hitting, while Michaela Edenfield emerges as a standout with a team-leading 13 home runs and 56 RBIs.
While the departure of staff ace Kathryn Sandercock leaves big shoes to fill, Florida State isn’t short on pitching talent. Makenna Reid, the top returning pitcher, boasts an impressive 28-4 record and a minuscule 1.12 ERA from the previous season, accompanied by 119 strikeouts over 194 innings pitched. Allison Royalty, with her 8-1 record and 2.23 ERA in 2023, adds another dimension to the pitching rotation, providing depth and versatility.
Defensively, the Seminoles are anchored by the reliable presence of Devyn Flaherty in the infield, ensuring solid defensive plays and stability. Behind the plate, Michaela Edenfield not only contributes with her powerful bat but also provides invaluable leadership and guidance to the team.
The early weeks of the season promise thrilling matchups as Florida State takes on some of the nation’s top-ranked teams. In week two alone, they will face off against formidable opponents such as co-No.3 Stanford, No. 10 UCLA, No. 6 Georgia, and No. 2 Tennessee, according to the NFCA Pre-season Rankings. These challenging games will serve as a litmus test for the Seminoles, providing an opportunity to showcase their talent and test their mettle against the best in the country.
As the season unfolds, all signs point to Florida State emerging as a dominant force in college softball once again. With a lethal combination of offensive firepower, pitching prowess, and defensive prowess, the Seminoles are poised to make a serious run for the championship title in 2024. Opponents beware: Florida State is ready to leave their mark on the diamond and etch their name in college softball history.
