2014 Preview: St. Louis

The Billikens come into 2014 after a solid 2013 season and they have high aspirations for this squad. St. Louis comes into 2014 with an experienced pitching staff that knows how to win. If the offense can step up, St. Louis could be a title contender.

Bri Lore

Pitching: St. Louis will count on the big lefty Bri Lore to lead the way in 2014, along with Laney Kneib. Lore had a great freshman season, which was capped off by an outstanding performance at the Atlantic 10 Tournament in 2013. Lore finished the year with a 14-15 record and a 2.56 ERA with 120 SO in 213 innings. Kneib went 14-8 with a 3.14 ERA and 52 SO in 129.1 IP. This duo should once again see the bulk of work for the Billikens. Elizabeth Everingham may also see some innings in the circle.

Katie Kroeger

Offense: There are some major questions regarding the St. Louis offense, as a number of key contributors graduated and left. Lindsay Friedman will lead the way at the plate, as she can hit for power, average, and speed. Friedman hit .290 with 36 hits, 8 HR, 30 RBI, and 14 steals. Kelsey Biggs and Katie Kroeger should also be key contributors in 2014. Coach Christy Connoyer will need freshmen and returnees to step up for this team to be successful.

Olivia Roback

Defense: The Billikens are strong at the corners with Elizabeth Everingham and Kelsey Biggs both returning. Lindsay Friedman is also back in the outfield. Elsewhere though, St. Louis has quite a few holes to fill, as the Billikens will need a new shortstop, catcher, and two outfielders. There will definitely be a lot of new faces out there for St. Louis.

Overall Prognosis: St. Louis will make the Atlantic 10 Tournament, but it is hard to see the Billikens snagging the title, unless the offense steps up. St. Louis will score quite a few wins in 2014, but it's non-conference schedule will be a drain on the conference's RPI.