Lady Rams open season with questions - WAFB 9 News Baton Rouge, Louisiana News, Weather, Sports

With only one senior to replace, you would think Albany State softball coach Robert Skinner would have his lineup ready for Tuesday's season opener against Thomas University. 

That is not the case after the two hitters projected to hit in the top two spots in the lineup, Shay Marks and Virginia Morris, will not play this season due to personal reasons.

The Lady Rams do return catcher Shaconna Marks and outfielder Dominique Bryant returns after missing a year to injury.

The pitching staff returns ace Chelsea Hicks but coach Robert Skinner wants to look at HIcks and three other pitchers in the first two games before determining his rotation.

After getting knocked out early in last year's SIAC tournament, the Lady Rams goal is to win the conference this year.

Their coach says that starts by opening against the best teams in the region.

"It is really tough early on for us. We look forward to it. It is going to be one of those things that is going to be challenge but we welcome the challenge," said head softball coach Robert Skinner.

"We are ready to come back and hit the ball hard. Play hard. Our pitching is excellent this year. We are ready to come back and do what we need to do, " said senior infielder Vanessa Jones.

Albany State will play at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday in doubleheader against Thomas University at Lady Rams Park.

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