After a major shoulder injury ended her 2024 regular season early, Pendleton County’s Baylee Beachler wasn’t sure she’d ever return to top form. But when she stepped back onto the field this year, there was no doubt—she was back, and better than ever.
Beachler’s incredible season, highlighted by a 19-1 pitching record, 158 strikeouts, and a 1.13 ERA, along with a .558 batting average, 12 home runs, and 65 RBIs at the plate, helped power Pendleton County to the Class A state championship. For her efforts, she has been named the Class A first-team all-state captain by the West Virginia Sports Writers Association.
She was joined on the first team by her Pendleton teammate Avery Townsend, who hit .563 with 10 homers and 50 RBIs.
“Those two are special,” said head coach Eric Crites. “If there’s an A and an A-plus, it’s them. They lead with talent and heart. They help their teammates get better and lead by example—on the field and in the dugout.”
The pair weren’t just stars; they were coaches on the field. “They notice mistakes, help correct them, and never let their talent overshadow the team,” Crites added.
Pendleton County wasn’t the only team making waves. State runner-up Wahama placed four players on the first team:
- Elissa Hoffman (Pitcher): 18-4 record
- Kalyn Christian (Infielder): .505 average, .961 fielding percentage
- Audrey Reynolds (Outfielder): .551 average, four home runs, 38 RBIs
- Fionna VanMatre (Utility): .460 average, five home runs
Greenbrier West also had three players honored:
- Brilee Redden (Pitcher/Utility): .526 average, 10 homers, 9-9 record with a 2.25 ERA
- Maddie Fields (Outfielder): .436 average, 35 RBIs
- Preslee Treadway (Infielder): .393 average, 31 RBIs
From Tug Valley, two players earned first-team nods:
- Bailee Hall: .540 average, 14 homers, 38 RBIs, 13-6 pitching record
- Emma Lackey (Freshman): .400 average, 39 RBIs, 2.24 ERA, 154 strikeouts
Two standout catchers also made the first team:
- Lexi Lowe (Sherman): .505 average, 46 hits
- Josalyn Phillips (Trinity): .427 average, eight homers
Other top infielders included:
- Layla Smith (Gilmer County): Nine home runs, 47 RBIs
- Jessa Anderson (Magnolia): .515 average, 34 hits
The final outfield spot went to Maddie Owens of Madonna, who batted an eye-popping .585 with 11 home runs and 51 RBIs.
Second Team Highlights:
- Captain: Kylee Ross (Wirt County, Catcher)
- Pitchers: Mallory McDiffitt (Magnolia), Phoebe Dudgeon (Mount View), Peyton Conley (Madonna)
- Catchers: Chloe Orrechio (Madonna)
- Infielders: Katie Hall (Tug Valley), Kalyn Salmons (Tolsia), Paige Montgomery (Gilmer County), Savannah Drake (Sherman), Lizzie Alt (Pendleton County)
- Outfielders: Peyton Moore (Trinity), Summer Harvey (Sherman)
- Utility Players: Jenna Smith (Pendleton), Susan Vincell (Pendleton), Peyton Hicks (Tucker County), Emma Russell (Sherman)
Wooden plaques featuring each all-state honoree’s name, school, and official WVSWA logo are available for purchase through the Bear Wood Company.
Beachler’s comeback season is one that will be remembered for years to come—and the foundation she and her teammates have laid for Pendleton County softball is nothing short of legendary.
