Highly-touted freshman class powering IU softball team

With 10 of its 23 players in their freshman year, the IU softball team is in rebuilding mode this season. But what the newest recruiting class lacks in age, it makes up for in talent.

“I think we have a very strong freshman class,” IU freshman infielder Amanda Wagner said. “We have some quickies and also some power hitters in the class.”

Eight of the 10 Hoosiers have seen playing time this year and provided production both offensively and on the pitching mound.

“I’m really happy with this freshman class, because we have so much talent as well as a lot of leadership,” freshman outfielder Samantha Heyman said.

This is IU coach Michelle Gardner’s first official signing class at the Hoosiers’ helm.
The most playing time has been seen from shortstop

Breanna Saucedo, Wagner, Heyman and pitcher Jessica Dobson. Heyman said her decision to sign with IU was based on a variety of reasons.  

“I chose Indiana because Indiana has a beautiful campus and all of the people are so nice,” Heyman said. “I really connected with the team when I came out here.”

Both Heyman and Saucedo are California natives that chose IU for the softball coaches and the campus.

“Coach Gardner is a really good coach,” Saucedo said. “At Nevada, she improved the team, and I felt that coming here would be a great opportunity for me.”
As the team goes into Big Ten play, it is confident its freshman will help produce victories.

The Hoosiers are 7-21 on the year, and Saucedo leads in total at-bats, hits, home runs, and RBI.

“Breanna is a great shortstop with outstanding hands and range and makes the game look easy,” Gardner said.

Last year through 28 games, the Hoosiers were 4-24. But this season has been different with key victories against Boise State, Oregon and Cal State Fullerton.
Wagner has also been a major contributor for the Hoosiers this season.  
She is tied for first on the team with 4 home runs and 14 RBI.

“Amanda is very talented and exceptionally strong with that bat, which gives her serious home run potential and the ability to make the game exciting,” Gardner said.
Dobson is tied for second on the team with 16 appearances on the mound and has 18 strikeouts.

She said despite being only a freshman, her role as a leader has been valuable to the team.  

Heyman has had 72 at-bats so far with 4 RBI on the season.

“I have a lot of energy and have a loud voice,” Heyman said. “I think people feed off of my energy during the game.”

Gardner added that Heyman’ ability on the diamond doesn’t hurt her ascension to one of the team’s leaders.

“Sammy is one of the most talented outfielders I have seen because she covers a lot of ground and has a great arm,” Gardner said.

The Hoosiers hope the freshman players, with their increased playing time this season, will be key assets for the team in years to come.

“Our freshmen are really talented and young, but I think we have a good future ahead of us,” Saucedo said.