Yukon High School senior pitcher Bailey Butler is determined to make every inning count for the Lady Millers this season. After battling through an injury last year, she said it reshaped her perspective on the game she loves. “I had to overcome an injury last year so this year I want to play every game like it could be my last.”
Butler anchors a Yukon squad she describes as close-knit and energized by a winning mindset. “We all hype each other up and are one big family. The atmosphere this season is a winning one!” she said. In the circle, she trusts the defense behind her and the support that comes from a unified dugout. “I am a pitcher. I enjoy how everyone on this team has my back and we can count on each-other.”
Summer workouts have set the tone for what Butler hopes will be a strong campaign. “They are going really well. Everyone has come back this season stronger physically and mentally,” she said, noting the team’s growth on and off the field. That mental edge is also a key part of her individual game. “I am strong mentally in the circle and don’t allow my emotions to affect me. I am working on improving my pitching endurance so I can throw more innings.”
Faith is at the center of Butler’s approach, guiding her on the field and in the classroom. “Jesus! He is my Lord and Savior and everything I do is for Him,” she said. She is involved in National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, balancing academics, leadership and athletics. “I am a member of National Honor Society and FCA.”
A former teammate, Maddie “Mo” Ogle, left a lasting mark on Butler’s leadership style. “She was a great team leader and took younger players under her wing. My mom always tells me go out and be a ‘Mo!’” Butler said. Committed to play softball at MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas, she plans to pursue a career as a pediatric nurse. “I am a senior. I am committed to play softball at MNU in Olathe, Kansas and plan to be a pediatric nurse.”
