Versatility a key for Lawrence

Having coached softball in Lawrence for more than a decade, Linda Perrone had a good feel for the roster she inherited this spring after a promotion to the varsity field.

Though a handful of expected returnees opted to focus on other priorities leading up to graduation, versatility should allow the Lady Golden Tornadoes (1-3) to remain competitive in Nassau Conference A-IV.

“We lost some experienced players before the season started, but they all had legitimate reasons,” said Perrone, who was the JV coach since 2003. “We’re fortunate to have girls capable of playing several positions. I’ve been trying to move them around and get a feel for our best defense. Everyone knows they might not be at the same position every game.”

Only five of the 14 players entered 2011 with varsity experience under their belt, led by senior captains Melissa Garcia, Aurora Linares and Jen Rudolph. Senior Chrissa Castillo and sophomore Nicole Robinson also played varsity ball a year ago.

Garcia enters her first year as a starter and is slated to spend the majority of time at shortstop. Her glove has been reliable, Perrone said, and as the team’s leadoff hitter she brings a fast set of wheels to the top of the order.

Linares is another with speed, which she uses to patrol center or left field. “She’s smart on the bases and her coverage of the outfield is great,” Perrone said.

Rudolph is a strong defender at first base and a candidate to get some innings of work in the pitching circle with Castillo’s availability up in the air due to a sore elbow. Rudolph gained valuable experience at the varsity level last season, Perrone said, and her consistent bat will often land in the meat of the order so she can have opportunities to drive in runs.

Castillo, who fields the position well and has quality speed and placement on her pitches, could return in late April. “I don’t want to force her back too soon and risk making the injury worse,” Perrone said. “When she’s healthy, she’s our main pitcher.”