Softball Ryan Shumaker
Eastern New Mexico softball received letters of intent from five incoming freshman for the 2021-22 academic year earlier this morning.
Andraya Alvarado, Lauren De La Cruz, Edyn Lopez, Taylor Harrison and Lisette Urquidez will join a program that recently finished second in the Lone Star Conference standings in 2020 despite a shortened season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All five signees can play multiple positions, allowing this class to fill in when needed in a variety of positions down the line.
“I am excited about all that this class brings to the softball program.” Head coach Kira Zeiter said, “These student-athletes are not only quality softball players, but good people, students and teammates. This class embodies what our program is about.”
Edyn Lopez and Taylor Harrison will both head east in the state of New Mexico and will join Eastern New Mexico as two of the top players in the state. Lopez will join the Hounds following her career at Los Lunas High School while Harrison will finish up her career at La Cueva High School prior to making her way to Portales.
“Edyn is a versatile fielder that be plugged into several spots and was a great fit from the moment she stepped on campus.” Coach Zeiter said, “She and Taylor will add a power bat to our lineup, while Taylor is also a pitcher that has a go-to change up and can also add depth to our outfield.”
A pair of utility players also made their commitment to the Hounds official in Lauren De La Cruz and Andraya Alvarado. De La Cruz, an El Paso, Texas native out of Riverside High School, can play both corners of the infield at first and third base while Alavarado, a native of Santa Ana, Calif. And a Villa Park High School product, can catch and play first base.
“Lauren hits the ball just about as hard as I have seen, and should make an impact on our home run totals.” Coach Zeiter said, “Andraya also adds power to the plate, but is very familiar with some of our current pitchers and catchers that will make her transition to the college level easier.”
Lisette Urquidez of Tucson High Magnet School in Tucson, Ariz. will join Harrison as the other member of the class with the ability to step into the circle and pitch. Urquidez will also bring the ability to hit at the plate with her and could see some time in other spots in the field as well.
“Lisette can give quality innings in the circle and also play a strong corner at either first or third.” Coach Zeiter said, “She contributes to many aspects during a game. I would like welcome Taylor, Lisette, Lauren, Andraya and Edyn to Eastern New Mexico softball and we are excited that you all chose to be Greyhounds!”
