The Gray Collegiate Academy girls softball team is starting the 2023 season in a familiar spot. 

Gray is ranked No. 1 in the S.C. High School League Coaches Poll. The War Eagles defeated Latta to finish 2022 as state 2A champions, with a 28-4 record.  

“We have 15 players returning from last year’s squad,” said Gray head softball coach Doug Frye. “We’re loaded and we have lots of depth.” 

He also described his team as athletic and well-practiced.

“We do tons of reps a day,” Frye said. “We hit them the ball over and over to sharpen their fielding. We have them hit at least 100 balls a day off the T.”

Frye said the only starter not coming back in 2023 is Brooke Tranum. She played second base and had a batting average of more than 600, with 18 home runs. 

“Brooke was a great leader,” Frye said. “We’ll have to replace that leadership. Someone will have to emerge.” 

Frye said, in 2023, pitching and defense are the strengths of his team. 

Taylor Corley went 17-1 on the mound last year and she is back. Frye said Corley has offers to play college softball, but she plans to go to medical school and will not play at the next level.  

Brooklinn Thomas will play a key defensive role at shortstop. She is a Duke commitment and also a strong hitter. Frye said Thomas hit four home runs in a preseason scrimmage. 

Catcher MJ Stradinger is solid behind the plate, said Frye. She is committed to play at USC-Beaufort after high school. 

Madison Knapper, a Columbia College commitment, plays first base for the War Eagles. 

“She is a strong defensive player and she will be counted on to produce with her bat,” Frye said.

Gray has played one game so far this season. It was a non-conference contest versus 5A Summerville on March 6. Summerville won 8-0.

“It’s early and our goal is to get better as we go forward,” said Frye. “We want to be at our best in the playoffs, like we were last year.” 

Gray opens home play this week, as it is set to host Cane Bay on March 15 and Fairfield Central on March 17 before traveling to play Westwood on March 20.