After a deep run into the 2023 postseason and loss in the state semifinal game, the Mustangs are determined to win their last game in 2024. “Last year, we lost by a heart-breaker,” head coach Justine Winchman said. “With the experience under our belts — We view this as an advantage.” Frontier retired only three players and returns most of its lineup. “We will be able to continue to swing it with power while creating chaos on the bases. It is always a great thing when you return your pitcher in the circle. We are fortunate that she is only a junior,” Winchman said. “This group is extremely special for they love each other and love to push each other. Their competitive edge will continue to make us special and a hard team to beat.” The Mustangs’ journey for a state championship begins Monday, Aug. 12 against Tonkawa at home, where Kylee Ruff (Jr., P) will look for her first win of the year. She picked up 17 Ws last year with a 1.86 ERA last year. “Kye has been our ace pitcher since her freshman year. She is the bread and butter to our team,” Winchman said. “ She is an amazing athlete and her determination will get her far in life. She is a competitor! We will also rely on her to steal a lot of bases for our program. When she gets on base, she sparks our program. She is the catalyst for us.” Kaiden “KK” Spidell (Sr.) will likely be the Mustangs’ most productive offensive player. She batted .521 last year with 65 RBI and four home runs. “Kaiden is our senior leader! She will continue to bat clean up for us and we are expecting several home runs and school record breaking RBI,” Winchman said. KK is the hardest working student athlete that I have ever had the privilege to coach. She is hard working on the field, classroom, and her personality and work ethic are contagious. KK is seeking multiple college offers.” Gracie Williams (So., Ulty) is an engine for the team. She batted .329 last year with an OBP of .465. “Gracie will do anything that you ask of her. She is extremely coachable,” Winchman said. “Last season as a freshman, she batted two-hole for us. She will lay down bunts or do anything that is asked of her.” Ali Sneath (Jr.) enters her third year starting at first base a year after batting in 44 runs and four home runs on .392 batting. “She is a 5-11 athletic target. She also carries a big stick that we rely on. Home run power and lots of RBIs,” Winchman said.
