The C.M. Russell High softball team has stormed out of the gates this season, and their bats are making all the noise. With a 3-1 record in Eastern AA conference play, the Rustlers have already plated an impressive 40 runs, signaling a powerful start under seventh-year head coach Alex Hurley.
This year's schedule presented an immediate challenge, jumping straight into high-stakes conference games. "We had to have a locked-in mindset right away," Hurley said, praising her team's discipline and hunger. That focus paid off with an 11-10 win over Billings Skyview and an 8-5 victory against Billings Senior to open the season. After a 7-0 loss to West, the Rustlers rebounded emphatically with a dominant 21-5 win at Bozeman Gallatin. "It was good to see the bats going," Hurley noted, adding that while the pitching staff is refining their game, they got the crucial outs when needed.
The offensive surge is being led by a core of experienced seniors. Returning all-conference third baseman Ruby Dean is setting the pace with a scorching .538 average, six RBIs, and three doubles, providing consistent power in the heart of the lineup. Fellow senior Aspyn Zuelke, the starting shortstop, is hitting .500 and leads the team with seven RBIs.
Versatility is another key strength for CMR. Junior Signe Hanson, a standout volleyball player in the fall, is batting .500 and has shown a keen eye as a potential leadoff hitter while seamlessly moving between second base and the outfield. Behind the plate, senior catcher Hailey Marr brings stability and a strong bat, hitting over .400.
The Rustlers have also welcomed back a key piece in senior first baseman Rilee Mares, who is hitting just under .400 after missing all of last season due to injury. "We're lucky to have her back," Hurley said of Mares's solid defensive presence. The outfield is anchored by seniors Kieva Mapes in left and Kaylei Schultz-Palagi in center, with Hanson and sophomore Ella Cron providing additional support.
With the lineup firing on all cylinders, the Rustlers look to carry this momentum into their next conference clash against Great Falls High on April 16.