Garfield G-MEN 2026 Softball Preview

Team name: Garfield G-MEN

2025 record: 9-8

Coach: Tina Faulhaber - 17th season

Coaching staff: JV coach - Shelby Baughman & Volunteers - Keary Knerem, Dan Peterson, and Mark Bailey

Key returning players: Annie Rado and Kaelyn Tasker - seniors; Madi Seiler, Charlee Hill - juniors; Emily Knerem, Brooke Hrabak, and Olivia Bailey - sophomores

Position outlook:

Infield: Brooke Hrabak and Payton Soltis will spend time in the middle infield. Both sophomores have many reps at second and shortstop. Lots of range, speed, and hustle. Emily Knerem will share the responsibilities as well when she is not behind the dish. Diamond Dyson will start at 3rd when she is not catching. Olivia Bailey will take reps at the hot corner when she is not on the mound. Annie Rado will hold down first when she is not hurling. 

Outfield: Kaelyn Tasker, Madi Seiler, and Charlee Hill have our outfield locked down. They have tons of speed and the confidence that comes with experience. They will be assisted by senior Ella Kissell who is ready to make her mark.

Catcher: Emily Knerem and Diamond Dyson will rotate at the plate. They have solid arms and an incredible knowledge of the game.

Pitching staff: Olivia Bailey will see a lot of innings on the mound. She has good speed and a nice catalog of pitches. Pairing nicely with her will be lefty Annie Rado. Her movement and variation keep hitters off guard. 

Season outlook / expectations: “Two underclassmen to watch are Payton Soltis who has a big role to fill, but she's up for the challenge and Laney Cales will round out the team with a solid bat and talent at many positions,” said Faulhaber. “Our biggest area of strength is experience and chemistry. Our biggest cause for concern is there is lots of returning competition in the league.”