CEDAR CITY, Utah - With just over a week left before the beginning of the 2025 season, the Southern Utah University softball team is poised to showcase a strong roster of pitchers and catchers, each bringing unique skills and experience to the field. Headlined by returning starters and promising newcomers, the Thunderbirds aim to build on last year's momentum in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).
Pitchers
Assistant Coach Taylor McQuillin SaidÂ
"I am really excited about the growth I have seen from this pitching staff throughout the last five months and am super optimistic about this upcoming season. Each of these pitchers brings an element that pairs well with all of the others, and I love how cohesively they flow as a unit. Their work ethic does not go unnoticed, and I know that will be highly reflected in their competitiveness this season."Â
Keimon Winston – Senior (Moreno Valley, California)
A veteran presence on the pitching staff, Winston contributed 67.1 innings in 2024, striking out 42 batters. A consistent starter for the T-Birds since arriving on campus, the senior leader from California has spent the offseason developing not only herself but also helping her newer teammates adjust to the challenges of Division I softball. With three years of collegiate experience under her belt, Winston's consistency and leadership are assets for the Thunderbirds pitching staff.
Delaney Baker – Junior (Farmington, Utah)
Baker emerged as a reliable starter in 2024, pitching 83 innings and earning six wins. One of Baker's strengths was her ability to grind through games, she pitched a complete game and secured a save last season. A multi-sport star in high school, Baker's athleticism and competitive edge continue to shine in the circle for the Thunderbirds.
Emily Delgado – Sophomore (Corona, California)
Delgado made an immediate impact in her freshman season, leading the team with 149.2 innings pitched 101 strikeouts. Her five complete games, including two shutouts, established her as a cornerstone of the pitching staff. Delgado's accolades in high school, including a CIF SoCal State Championship, foreshadowed her success at the collegiate level. Look to see her continue to develop as she enters her sophomore season. 
Riley Nielson – Redshirt Sophomore (Tucson, Arizona)
After an injury-shortened 2024 season, Nielson is eager to make a comeback. The redshirt sophomore earned a win in her sole appearance last season before being sidelined. During her freshman year, she demonstrated versatility, appearing in both pitching and fielding roles. A standout at Sabino High School, Nielson led her team to a 3A State Championship, recording a stellar 1.44 ERA and 199 strikeouts in her senior year.
Maddie Moreno – Freshman (Fullerton, California)
Moreno brings championship pedigree and a wealth of accolades to Southern Utah. A two-time league champion and 16u Alliance All-Tournament Team selection, she adds depth and promise to the pitching rotation.
Catchers
Assistant Coach Taylor McQuillin SaidÂ
"These four have worked really hard during the fall to be the best they can be for our pitching staff. We have spent the fall grinding physically while also building upon their softball knowledge throughout all aspects of the game. The true strength of this catching staff is their ability to not only understand every pitcher but also communicate and build relationships with each pitcher on the staff. They have all worked extremely hard in the off-season to complement the other half of the battery, no matter which pitcher takes the rubber."
Kassidy Munoz – Sophomore (Indio, California)
Munoz impressed in her freshman season, starting 30 games and hitting .316 with two home runs. Defensively, she threw out six runners attempting to steal, showcasing her skills behind the plate. A decorated high school athlete, Munoz was named Desert Sun Softball Player of the Year during her senior season and brings both offensive and defensive prowess to the lineup.
Amyah Boostedt – Senior (Casa Grande, Arizona)
Boostedt enters her senior season as a veteran catcher for the Thunderbirds. While her 2024 season was limited, she has demonstrated solid fielding and clutch performances in past years, including a season-high five RBI game as a freshman. A constant on the Dean's List and Big Sky All-Academic honoree, Boostedt balances athletic and academic excellence.
Michelle De la Cruz – Freshman (Las Vegas, Nevada)
De la Cruz is a promising newcomer, recognized as a 2023 All-Region First Team selection and a member of the National Polynesian Team. De la Cruz could see some at-bats this season, as her presence at the plate could be significant for the offensive production. Her strong high school career sets the stage for her to make an impact at SUU.
Tasha Hokanson – Junior (Herriman, Utah)
Hokanson, a transfer from the College of Southern Idaho, brings a strong defensive skill set to the catcher position. As a Region 18 Second Team All-Conference selection, she has proven she can handle the demands of collegiate softball.
Outlook
Southern Utah's pitchers and catchers are set to play a pivotal role in the team's success this season. From the firepower of Winston and Baker on the mound to the consistent bat of Kassidy Munoz behind the plate, the Thunderbirds have the tools to compete at a high level. As they prepare to take the field, look for this dynamic group to lead the charge in 2025.
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