2016 Season Preview: Bullpen
2/10/2016 12:00:00 AM | Softball
The University of Maryland softball program is just four days away from the start of its 2016 season. To get ready for opening day, umterps.com will provide a four-part season preview focusing first on the schedule, and then breaking down the infield, outfield, and the bullpen. Today, we preview the Terrapin bullpen.
Many would argue that in college softball the bullpen is the most important piece of the puzzle. This offseason, head coach Julie Wright and pitching coach Lisa Norris pieced the puzzle together.
With the graduation of 2015 ace Kaitlyn Schmeiser, three Terrapins- Brenna Nation, Hannah Dewey and Madison Martin - will lead the Maryland pitching staff in 2016.
“The bullpen has made tremendous strides this offseason and has been a group that has really impressed me with their focus and attention to detail,” said head coach Julie Wright. “All of the pitchers bring a unique skill set and really complement one another.”
Nation enters the 2016 campaign healthier than ever. The Chickamaugha, Ga. native appeared in just 18 games last year, but will be a mainstay on the Maryland pitching staff this year. With the help of pitching coach Lisa Norris, Nation is primed for a stellar season. In the fall, Nation threw a team high 13 innings, allowing just three earned runs and striking out 17.
Utility players Dewey and Martin will also carry a big load of the pitching for the Terrapins. Dewey struck out 57 batters in 2015 as one of Maryland's primary hurlers. The lefty posted a 0.58 ERA in 12 innings in the fall.
Martin returns from a season long foot injury in 2015 and ready to get back in the circle. As a freshman, Martin pitched 127.1 innings, notching 12 wins and was ninth in the ACC in strikeouts (86). Both Dewey and Martin will play big roles all over the field and at the plate in 2016.
For a pitcher to be successful, a good catcher is essential. Maryland's leader behind the dish, and the captain of the bullpen this year is Kristina Dillard. The Hanover, Md. native is coming home after spending her first two collegiate seasons at the University of Louisville. Dillard has made it her mission to get to know each pitcher individually to be able to best guide them in each game. Both at the plate and behind it, Dillard will be one of Maryland's biggest leaders in 2016.
Other newcomers to the bullpen include Foothill, Calif., twins Andi and Ari Jarvis. Ari will be assisting the Terrapins on the mound, while Andi will be behind the plate.
Sami Main will also be welcomed to the Maryland pitching staff. The last time Main saw the field at the Maryland Softball Stadium, she threw the last pitch for Middletown High School as they clinched the Maryland state championship. Main will add a much-needed piece to the bullpen.
Follow @TerpsSoftball on Twitter as Maryland opens up its 2016 campaign this Friday against Boston College at the Kajikawa Classic.
