Southeastern Pa. softball players to watch

Maggie Balint, Avon Grove: The junior was dominant a year ago, earning Pennsylvania Gatorade Player of the Year honors. The righthander had an earned-run average of 0.45 and had 358 strikeouts.

Jen Cader, Hatboro-Horsham: Stellar defensively, the senior outfielder made a habit of getting defensive assists last season. She was especially lethal throwing home. The Kent State recruit is also great at the plate and will bat leadoff for the Hatters.

Kerri Dadalski, Archbishop Ryan: The Central Connecticut recruit hit cleanup for the Ragdolls and split time in the circle for the Catholic League and District 12 Class AAAA champs. When she wasn't pitching, the versatile senior played shortstop.

Megan Kern, Spring-Ford: As a freshman last year, she burst onto the scene with a big bat. The catcher is sure to power this strong lineup, as Spring-Ford looks to return to the PIAA Class AAAA state playoffs.

Amanda Kulp, Methacton: One of six returning starters for the defending Pioneer Athletic Conference champs, the senior led off for the Warriors last year and played shortstop. She is headed to St. Joseph's.

Taylor Long, Episcopal Academy: Expect the senior, a terrific shortstop and five-hole batter last year, to have a big role as the Churchwomen look to repeat as the Inter-Ac and Independent Schools champs.

Jackie Morell, Bensalem: This will mark her fourth year as a starting pitcher for the Owls. The senior brings leadership, toughness and experience into the circle. She will play at Kutztown next year.

Sam Offenback, Neshaminy: As a junior last season, the catcher hit .456 with 28 RBI, 22 runs scored. She homered six times and added seven doubles. Offensively, there aren't many more consistent performers. Her experience behind the plate is invaluable.

Sam Tomasetti, Garnet Valley: Last season, the shortstop hit .324 with 23 hits, 26 runs batted in, five home runs and slugging percentage of .718. What makes this junior Hofstra recruit so special? She committed no errors.

Paige Warfel, Downingtown East: A tremendous all-around athlete, the junior pitcher and first baseman is a Delaware recruit. Last year, she hit .395, with 30 hits and 11 RBIs. She committed zero errors and had 53 putouts.

Taylor Winkelman, Springfield (Delco): One of the best players in the Central League, the senior centerfielder was remarkable last season for the Cougars. She hit .472 with 30 RBIs and 35 hits - fifteen of which went for extra bases, including 10 home runs.