In this edition of the Triple Play, staff writers Rodrick Anderson and Warren Arceneaux preview the high school softball season.

Name a large schools team to watch.

WA: Iowa. The Yellow Jackets slugged their way to the Class 3A championship game last year and return seven starters as they look to win the program’s first state championship.

RA: South Beauregard. The Lady K’s have missed the state tournament by a game three of the last four seasons but could end the 13-year drought. They return three all-Southwest Louisiana players in pitcher Hayven Meyers and infielders Morgan Eaves and shortstop Emelie Price.

Name a small schools team to watch.

WA: Merryville. The Panthers return ace pitcher Riley Dyson after reaching the Class 1A semifinals last season.

RA: Kinder reached the quarterfinals last year after reaching the final in 2019 and return three that earned honorable mention all-state honors last year in Hadley Lemons, Megan Fuselier and Brianna Langley.

Name a player to watch.

WA: Sam Houston pitcher Lexi Dibbley is a two-way star who made great strides in the circle over the course of last season. At the plate, Dibbley has extra-base power and hits in the heart of the Broncos’ order.

RA: South Beauregard star first-baseman Morgan Eaves is back for one more season to add to her impressive home run totals. She hit 20 last year and 32 in her career along with 35 doubles and 117 RBIs.