Much like the District 9-3A softball race, there were a few at the top of the heap among area softball players this season.
And like her Pilot Point team, Skylar Cagle stood out above the rest for her performance on the field in 2012 to earn MVP honors on the Denton Record-Chronicle All-Area softball team.
The junior pitcher led the Lady Cats in the circle, compiling a 19-12 record with a 1.88 ERA. She struck out 209 batters while helping lead the Lady Cats to an appearance in the Class 3A Region II semifinals, Pilot Point’s deepest run since a state tournament appearance in 2005.
“It’s an honor,” Cagle said. “There are a lot of deserving girls that could’ve gotten MVP. So to get it is a huge honor.”
Cagle was special because of her importance in all areas. Not only was she a shutdown pitcher for the Lady Cats, but she also helped carry Pilot Point offensively.
The junior, who plays shortstop when she isn’t pitching, led the team with a .455 batting average and a .549 on-base percentage, scored 24 runs and drove in 25 runs while hitting in the pressure-packed No. 3 spot in the lineup.
Cagle said she relishes the feeling of having her teammates count on her in crucial situations. She also likes controlling the pace of a game from the circle.
“It’s a lot of pressure, but I love it,” said Cagle, who has committed to Northwestern State. “A lot of it has to do with my team and my team having my back while I’m out there pitching. It helps a lot while you’re out there and you know your defense will be strong behind you.”
The Lady Cats lost six players to graduation but will return Cagle as well as several other contributors in 2013. Pilot Point will return to Class 2A next season after the latest UIL realignment.
“We’re very excited for next year,” she said. “Especially with us moving down to 2A, it’s going to be fun. We’re really excited about it.”
ADAM BOEDEKER can be reached at 940-566-6872. His e-mail address is aboedeker@dentonrc.com.
