Centerburg's Abby Herren didn't just step up to the plate on May 14—she stepped into Ohio high school softball history. In the first inning of the Division V district tournament opener against Marion Pleasant, the senior shortstop called a timeout. It wasn't the chilly breeze or the pressure of the moment that made her pause. It was her routine. "Sometimes I call time to give myself a second," Herren said. "I'm in charge of my at-bat, so I want to be able to calm down and think."

That calm focus paid off in a big way. Herren launched her 23rd home run of the season—a no-doubter to straightaway center field—tying the OHSAA single-season home run record. The Miami University signee now shares the top spot with Warren Champion's Gabby Gradishar (2024), Perrysburg's Hayley Griggs (2025), and Williamsburg's Carly Wagers (2025). "I wasn't even thinking about that," Herren admitted after the Trojans' 12-1 win. "Maybe a double in the gap to start us off. I think I just got all of that one."

Herren entered the game already tied for second all-time with Gahanna Lincoln's Addie Kittel (2018), Mount Vernon's Hope Straight (2018), and Mount Orab Western Brown's Peyton Young (2021). Straight, who went on to star at Ohio State, once held Ohio's career home run record with 60. Now, Herren stands alone at the top of the single-season list—and she's not done yet.

With a .693 batting average that leads central Ohio and ranks fourth statewide, Herren will get her first shot at the outright record on May 15 at Loudonville. If she doesn't break it there, the next opportunity comes May 18, when the third-seeded Trojans (21-3) host No. 4 North Union in a district semifinal. Every at-bat from here on out is a chance to make history. And if her approach at the plate is any indication, she'll be ready.