Carolina Academy softball shows solid potential
By David Shelton
Senior Writer
Lake City – Just two weeks into the 2025 high school softball season, the Carolina Academy softball team, led by coaching legend Scotty Phillips, has faced some adversity.
Phillips reports the loss of returning shortstop Kelsey Smith to a lingering knee injury. Smith will sit out her junior season in hopes of healing and returning in 2026.
“That hurts because she’s a good player and she’s experienced,” Phillips said. “But what can you do? We have to move on and someone else has to step up. We’ll be okay.”
It’s not like Phillips has never had to replace personnel. He has inserted eighth-grader Paisley McCutcheon at shortstop and feels strongly that she can handle the work. McCutcheon was slated to play second base this season.
The Bobcats opened the season with a 2-2 record and showed positive signs. However, Phillips says the team needs work.
“I feel good about what we can be but we need a few weeks to iron some things out,” the coach said. “I see a lot of potential with this team but they have to focus and continue to work.”
The strength of the 2025 team is inside the pitching circle. Junior Raylee Frye is a third-year performer who is as good as any hurler in SCISA when she brings her “A” game. Freshman Ella Ham will log innings at pitcher as well while also playing centerfield and first base. Lauren Sims also will pitch and share third base duties with Frye.
“We have three good pitchers, dependable,” Phillips said. “I feel good giving the ball to any of them.”
Handling the catching duties is returning starter Carlie Ann Smith, a junior who has been impressive behind the dish early on.
Sophomore
Jaylyn Davis will play most of the innings at first base while eighth-grader
Natalie Braveboy will move from left to second base to replace McCutcheon.
Three eighth-graders,
Paisley Coker, Kayley Lyerly and
Emma Amos are working in rightfield, with Ham also getting reps.
“Young and new in the outfield so we have a lot of work to do.” Phillips said.
Rounding out the varsity roster this season are Katherine Holiday, Lexi McCutcheon, Sarah Emma Garris, Savannah McCUtcheon, Jennifer Vargas and Hannah Grace Matthews.
