CEDAR CITY, Utah - The Southern Utah Thunderbirds have just opened spring practices in preparation for a return to competition on February 5 at the University of Arizona. With just under a month before the T-Birds take the diamond, let's take a look at the players competing for a spot on the infield.
Coach Don Don Williams Said
"This group is extremely competitive, and that's exactly how we want it. We have multiple players capable of producing offensively, and every rep matters as they continue to earn opportunities. Our standards are clear, and we expect consistent preparation, quality at-bats, and doing the little things right. The competition in this group is only going to make us better as the season approaches."
Infield Outlook: Depth, Versatility, and Run-Producing Potential
Southern Utah's infield enters the season with a mix of production, positional versatility, and young talent pushing for opportunity. While roles may evolve early, the Thunderbirds have multiple options capable of stabilizing the defense and driving the offense as the season unfolds.
Middle Infield: Leadership and Offensive Firepower
Tawnie Mozeris remains a cornerstone of the infield. The returning starter earned the shortstop job as a freshman and quickly established herself as a reliable, steady presence. Mozeris hit .244 during the 2025 season while posting a strong .374 on-base percentage, drawing 17 walks, and leading the team in sacrifice bunts. Her ability to control the pace of the game and execute in key situations gives Southern Utah a dependable option up the middle and a veteran leader down the stretch.
Regardless of alignment, Arianna Ramirez headlines the infield group. One of the most dangerous hitters in the conference, Ramirez is coming off a dominant sophomore season in which she led the Thunderbirds in batting average (.380), home runs (9), RBIs (38), slugging percentage (.662), and total bases (94). A First Team All-WAC selection and two-time WAC Player of the Week, Ramirez combines elite plate discipline with power, striking out just seven times all season. Her defensive versatility allows the Thunderbirds to move her around the infield to maximize both offense and matchups.
Corners and Competition: Youth Meets Opportunity
The addition of McKenzy Becerra gives Southern Utah another strong option on the left side of the infield. A natural third baseman with a polished glove, Becerra brings proven pop after hitting over .450 during her high school career and earning First Team All-Palomares League honors. Though she joined the program recently, her bat and defensive instincts provide immediate depth and competition at the corners.
Michelle De La Cruz also adds power potential to the infield mix. The utility player drove in five runs during her freshman season and showed flashes of extra-base ability. If De La Cruz can lock down a defensive role, her bat could become an important piece of the Thunderbirds' offensive puzzle.
Utility Depth: Versatility as a Weapon
Aubrie Burgos impressed in limited action as a freshman, hitting .364 and reaching base at a .462 clip while providing energy and leadership off the bench. Izzy Knight, a decorated prep player with multiple All-State and All-Region honors, is working to earn consistent innings wherever the Thunderbirds need her most.
Kassidy Muñoz, while primarily a catcher, is expected to see time in the infield as well. A proven, consistent bat who has appeared in nearly every game since arriving on campus, Muñoz's softball IQ and clutch hitting give Southern Utah another dependable option when flexibility is required.
Rounding out the group is freshman Karsyn Sanchez, whose defensive range could earn her early opportunities. Her ability to impact the game with her glove makes her a candidate to factor into the infield rotation as the season develops.
The Big Picture
With impact returners, positional flexibility, and emerging depth, the Thunderbirds' infield is built to adapt. Early-season adjustments may be required, but Southern Utah has the personnel to stay steady defensively while generating offense throughout the lineup. As roles solidify, this group has the potential to become a reliable backbone for the Thunderbirds as they push through conference play.
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