CEDAR CITY, Utah — The Southern Utah outfield enters the upcoming season loaded with experience, speed, and emerging firepower, giving the Thunderbirds one of their most dynamic position groups on the roster. From proven all-conference production to veteran leadership and exciting new talent, SUU's outfielders are poised to impact the game on both sides of the ball.
Head Coach Don Don Williams Said
"This is a really experienced group that brings a lot to the table. Their speed can change a game in a hurry, whether it is putting pressure on the bases or covering ground in the outfield. They run down crucial outs and take a lot of pride in playing clean defense. Just as important is the leadership they provide. They know what is expected, they lead by example every day, and they set the tone for how we want to compete."
Leading the charge is Michaella Salvatierra, the reigning Second Team All-WAC selection who burst onto the scene as a freshman and never slowed down. The sophomore from Chula Vista, California, appeared in every game last season and finished second on the team with a .364 batting average while leading the Thunderbirds in hits (56), at-bats (154), runs scored (31), and stolen bases (22-for-24). A catalyst at the top of the lineup, Salvatierra posted a .417 on-base percentage and drew 14 walks, consistently setting the table for SUU's offense. Her ability to pressure defenses with speed and deliver in big moments, including multiple four-hit performances, makes her a cornerstone of the Thunderbirds' attack.
Veteran presence comes in the form of Alayah Toscano, a senior from Corona, California, who brings steady production and defensive reliability to the outfield. Toscano has been a fixture in the lineup throughout her career, appearing in all 45 games last season after starting all 50 the year prior. In 2025, she collected 24 hits, drove in 10 runs, and tied for the team lead with two triples, both coming in the same game against UTA. A perfect 7-for-7 on stolen base attempts, Toscano combines smart baserunning with consistency at the plate. Her background as a high school standout and Defensive Player of the Year continues to translate at the collegiate level, as she showcases a range nearly unmatched.
Taralyn Ollison, a junior from Murrieta, California, adds versatility and efficiency to the group. After primarily serving as a defensive specialist as a freshman, Ollison expanded her role last season, appearing in 38 games and hitting .308 with 28 hits and nine RBIs. She also contributed with four sacrifice hits and a .323 on-base percentage, showing her willingness to do the small things that help teams win. Ollison's growth offensively complements her defensive reliability, giving SUU another dependable option in the outfield rotation.
Rounding out the unit is newcomer Alayna Ma'ake, a freshman from San Diego, California, who brings immediate upside. Ma'ake adds depth and power potential to the lineup. Her strong bat and competitive background provide an exciting element as she transitions into the collegiate game.
With Salvatierra's spark, Toscano's leadership, Ollison's continued development, and Ma'ake's promising arrival, the Southern Utah outfield is built to impact games in multiple ways. Speed on the bases, range in the field, and consistency at the plate should make this group a key factor as the Thunderbirds prepare for the season ahead.
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