Snyder shining as BP’s new slugger

The No. 3 spot in the batting order is a coveted position on any team’s lineup, but for Blooming Prairie’s Shawntee Snyder, it is more than just an opportunity to show off her skills at the plate.

The junior third baseman was asked to take over the role after the departure of long-time varsity standout Bobbie Bruns and has exploded for 22 hits, 18 runs, and 21 RBIs so far this season.

“Being the No. 3 batter is a huge responsibility especially when last year Bobbie was in that spot. She is an amazing player and filling her shoes is so nerve-racking, but as the season goes on it gets easier and easier. I also feel like I have an easier job than her because our team this year has really come around, and our whole batting order is full of great hitters,” said Snyder.

Snyder has been a veteran of the varsity squad since her freshman year for the Awesome Blossoms, but her opportunity began with a new adventure: a new position.

“I first started playing softball in the first grade, playing in summer softball leagues in Austin. I had been pulled up in Blooming as a freshman to play varsity. The previous coach, Jenna Volgarino, had a conversation with me asking if I was willing to play third base. That wasn’t my usual spot, but varsity was my goal and I would do anything to help the team,” said Snyder.

Her varsity experience has paid dividends in 2023, as the third-year veteran has caught fire recently with 11 hits, seven runs, and 15 RBIs in her last five games.

However, no stat could possibly come close to what Snyder accomplished against NRHEG at Jane Sage Cowles Stadium last week.

With her team trailing 10-9 in the bottom of the eighth inning and two runners on base, Snyder launched a missile of a home run to deep left center field to give the Awesome Blossoms the 12-10 win.

When asked post-game about the at-bat, Snyder’s response to the hit was simple: She knew it was gone right off the bat.

Her shot earned her a game ball and a celebration with teammates and fans alike, but more than anything, it earned the team a core memory.

“I don’t think that game will ever feel real to any of us. We have been so proud of ourselves for staying in the game and making the comeback, but at the same time, we shouldn’t be putting ourselves in that position… The dugout was an unreal place. Every person in that dugout including coaches, and even team managers wasn’t just going to give up. Everyone was lifting each other up and only saying positive things. Everyone knew how good we could be, and it just started with hitting the ball,” said Snyder.