FULTON — Itawamba Community College softball standout Bailie Springfield of Mantee was named All-American by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association on June 6.
The former East Webster High School player was selected as Second Team All-American pitcher. Additionally, ICC’s Meg Sullivan of Springville, Alabama, was named Second Team outfielder.
The duo were a big part of the historic 2018 season for the No. 3 Indians, winning a program-record 41 games, winning the regular-season conference title and earning their highest-ever national ranking (No. 3).
Springfield, a University of Southern Mississippi signee, finished her sophomore season in the red and blue with a 1.54 ERA, 123 strikeouts, seven shutouts and a no-hitter in 150.1 innings pitched. She finished with a 20-5 record to earn the program record for wins in a single season.
Outside the circle, Springfield picked up 21 RBI and scored 35 runs while batting .296 on the year while leading the Indians in doubles (11) and added three triples and a pair of home runs. Springfield only struck out five times in 135 at-bats to go along with her .342 on-base percentage and .467 slugging percentage.
Defensively, Springfield had a .974 fielding percentage with only three errors and six double plays in 117 chances as a pitcher, shortstop and third baseman.
This postseason the right-hander has also received National Junior College Athletic Association All-Region 23, NFCA All-Region South, Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges Pitcher of the year and MACJC First Team All-State honors. She will be eligible for All-American honors from the NJCAA and NFCA.
USM signing
Springfield signed with the University of Southern Mississippi softball team on May 31.
“The coaches made me feel at home when I went to visit,” said Springfield. “I like the way they are building their program and I hope I can help them continue to get better.”
“This is a big day for Bailie and her family and ICC softball,” said ICC Coach Andy Kirk. “You’re glad to see all the hard work she has put in pay off with a Division I scholarship. Bailie is an easy player to coach. She works hard and brings it every day and that’s really going to help her be successful on the next level.”
Springfield played one season with the Indians after transferring from Delta State. The Indians (41-11) advanced to the semifinals of the NJCAA Region 23 Tournament and the championship game of the MACJC Tournament after winning the MACJC regular-season championship.
