(Harlan, IA) — The Harlan softball team has not won a playoff game since 2022 — that can end tonight as the Cyclones host Perry in a first round game in Class 4A, Region 1. Harlan is 17-11 and has had some big wins last week — beating St. Albert 7-4 and upsetting West Monona 8-7. Head Coach Nolan Heese says its important that his hitters have success against quality pitching
The offense has been solid led by Junior Taylor Heese (.424, 3 HR, 26 RBI); 8th grader Brynn Schmacher (.391, 6 HR, 36 RBI) and Senior Lauren Schmitz (.356, 14 RBI) but Heese says he is getting production from players at the bottom of the line up too like Suzy Kenkel, Carley Goshorn, Camryn Goshorn, Aubree Wegener and 9 hole hitter Kaitlynn Schmitz
In the circle, Harlan has been using three pitchers — Senior Lauren Schmitz has 9 starts and a 4.09 ERA; Senior Rebekah Christensen has 8 starts and a 3.75 ERA; Junior Camryn Goshorn has 11 starts and a 5.28 ERA. Heese says most teams like to go with one pitcher in the playoffs but he is prepared to go with all three
Harlan hosts 4-21 Perry tonight and the winner will play at #1 ADM on Saturday.
Complete Interview with Head Coach Nolan Heese
