FSU softball: 4 things that must happen to return to elite status in 2025
By Kelvin Hunt
Reid And Danley Must Continue To Develop
Once FSU didn't land a quality transfer portal pitcher, I knew their ceiling would be limited in 2024. That proved true early as they struggled in the season opener, and got shelled against top 10 teams in the Clearwater Invitational. Makenna Reid felt the pressure to replace Kathryn Sandercock as the ace, and Allison Royalty wasn't a dominant pitcher. Freshman Ashtyn Danley was a freshman, and it showed early. However, Danley began to develop nicely as the season progressed, and Reid began to flash, although she still had not developed a secondary pitch she could throw for a strike.
Asked Lonni Alameda about Makenna Reid, who pitched tonight after missing past month: "Yeah, Kenny was on a pitch count. Kind of a pain tolerance count. She's dealing with some stress fractures in her back. So now it's time to get her healthy and rested for next season." ctd.
— Chris Nee (@CNee247) May 25, 2024
Danley began to show consistency with her fastball and change-up but needs to develop more velocity. Reid showed some progress with a change-up but telegraphed it badly against Oklahoma in the Super Regionals. Maybe it was because it was the first time she had pitched live in over a month, or because she was pitching with stress fractures in her back. FSU has some potential should both return in 2025. They could be a dynamic 1-2 punch if they continue to develop. Both need to get stronger and add velocity.