By: Nathan Bloechl — sports@kilj.com
KILJ — The Mount Pleasant softball team will open their season tonight against the Lady Dees of Albia, on the road in a nonconference tilt.
The Panthers finished last season 4-18 and will be under the direction of new head coach Mike Beason, who is taking over for Troy Mears who stepped down from the position over the winter.
Mount Pleasant will rely heavily on junior Savana Walls, one of their top returning hitters from last year as well as continued improvement from youngsters Ella McNamee, Emma Starr and Jayden Housh.
The Panthers are, however, in the unenviable position of replacing 90.1 innings that have been vacated following the graduation of All-Conference talent Sydni Coleman.
Grace Kelley and Jordan Crooks were the only two returning arms who logged any time last season.
Albia has won the the last three matchups between the schools.
Tonight’s game will have first pitch at 7:00 p.m. at Albia High School.