EVANSVILLE, Ind. – With the season just two weeks away for the University of Evansville softball team, we took the time to catch up with Purple Aces head coach Mat Mundell to preview this year's squad in a 3-part series.  Today we take a look at the outfield for 2018.
 
"We are going through some transition in the outfield and will definitely be bringing more speed and athleticism to those positions," Mundell said.  "Our girls have worked really hard as they compete for playing time."
 
Evansville's outfield features returners Deja Shelton, Olivia Cheatham and Kristin Koepke.  Also joining the fray will be reigning Missouri Valley Conference Newcomer of the Year Brittany Hay.  Hay will be playing in center field this season after serving as UE's shortstop last season.
 
"Deja has worked hard on her offensive game over the summer and we are excited to see her improvement," Mundell explained.  "Kristin will also see time in the infield and will be a utility player for us.  She has one of the strongest arms on the team, so we look forward to what she can do defensively.  Olivia is probably our most experienced outfielder.  She had a great summer and fall and is one of the best that we have defensively; she can help us out in any outfield position."
 
Three freshmen will also be in the mix: Mea Adams, Allison Daggett and Toni Galas.  Coach Mundell explained that each one can step right up and contribute.
 
"Allison has the ability to play in the infield or outfield and will definitely see time at different positions," Mundell said.  "Mea and Toni are both slap hitters who can give us the ability to do some different things at the plate.  Their speed and athleticism will be a benefit to us both offensively and defensively."
 
Check in over the next two weeks as we preview the infield and pitching for the Aces.  UE opens the season on February 9 at the Louisiana Classic in Lafayette, La.
                                                                                                                                      

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