Stepping up to the plate

By Melissa Yerkov
Times Sports Editor

Kasey Barnes is proving that size doesn’t matter.
The Ragdolls’ rightfielder is one of the smallest girls on the softball field.
And also one of the strongest power hitters.
The Archbishop Ryan High School junior has already slammed two triples for the Ragdolls this season.
The second came early in the game against Archbishop Prendergast on March 28. Barnes hit leadoff and started the game with a shot deep into the outfield.
"It always feels great to get a big hit," said Barnes. "I love hitting leadoff. I love the pressure that comes along with it. I like starting off the game and getting the team excited."
Barnes spent all three years of her high school softball career on the Ragdolls’ varsity squad. Although her main responsibilities were as a designated hitter during her freshman and sophomore years, Barnes has stepped up to the plate this year, and is one of the Ragdolls’ leading players.
"Kasey does a great job," said Ryan coach Andy Hafele. "She’s a strong rightfielder and one of our best hitters."
Barnes was a second-team All-Catholic last year and batted .380, with three home runs and four triples.
"She’s a really good leadoff batter for us," said Hafele. "She puts the ball in play and gets things started."
Barnes brings both offensive and defensive talent to the Ragdolls squad, skills that have been a long time in the making.
"I’ve been playing softball as long as I can remember," said Barnes. "It’s just something I’ve always loved."
These days though, her time is spent wearing a Ragdolls uniform and also playing for the Philadelphia Angels, a local travel team.
"I play all year around, so that’s really good," said Barnes, who also plays second base when she’s not in the outfield. "We play all winter and summer, but I get off for Ryan’s season."
And what better way to spend her time off than playing more softball.
"I couldn’t imagine not being on the softball field," said Barnes. "Even after high school, I plan to keep playing."
The junior recently started researching possible colleges to decide which is the best for her.
"I know I want to stay close and I know I want to play softball, but that’s it," said Barnes. "I’m starting to e-mail coaches now, so it’s a lot of pressure."
In the meantime, though, Barnes is enjoying her time as a varsity starter for the Ragdolls.
"I really love this team," said Barnes. "Everyone’s been playing with each other for so long now that we all know each other pretty well. We’re all very close."
The Ragdolls are an experienced team this season, with six juniors and five seniors.
"I think we have a good team this year," said Hafele, now in his 14th year coaching the Ragdolls. "Every team in the league is tough. If we can play good defense and keep up the good pitching, I think we’ll go far."
Pitcher Sara Michalowski will be starting the majority of the games for the Ragdolls, with senior Sue Miller as the team’s number two on the mound.
"We’ve improved a lot," said Barnes. "I think we have a good team this year and we’re going to do great things."
She has high hopes. She has a positive attitude. And she definitely has the skill to back it up.
It looks like Barnes is going to be an excellent asset for the Ragdolls this season, both on and off the field.
"I like to get everyone excited and keep their spirits up," said Barnes. "Let them know that we’re here as a team and if they strike out or miss a catch, that’s fine . . . they’ll get it next time.
"I think we have a lot of talent this year," she added. "I know this is going to our year. And I’m really excited." ••
Sports editor Melissa Yerkov can be reached at 215-354-3035 or myerkov@phillynews.com