Top freshman softball players in O.C.

BELLA SECAIRA -- At No. 10 is the only catcher on our list, Bella Secaira. This Newport Harbor athlete will contribute immediately. She swings a powerful bat that promises extra bases. Defensively, she is one of the savviest catchers in the county.

CARISSA SHERMAN -- No. 7 brings us to Carissa Sherman. This versatile freshman expects to help Edison any way she can. I'm most impressed with her offensive composure. As a lefty she keeps defenses guessing, and likes to put the ball where players aren't. She's a special athlete who has a chance to really make a name for herself in the sport.

JADE VECVANAGS -- Orange Lutheran's Jade Vecvanags takes the No.5 spot. This young pitcher promises Orange Lutheran some years of success. Vecvanags has great command of her spins and good pop on her pitches.

KARLEY WESTER -- Edison's Karley Wester comes in at No.3. She combines athleticism and speed. A dual threat at the plate, this left-handed batter can beat you with small ball or power. I expect her to make a huge contribution to Edison's offense this season.

KELSEY FREDERICKS -- Foothill's Kelsey Fredericks takes the No. 9 spot. Fredericks has proven to be a true competitor. Already having won a national championship in travel ball, she is at a much higher experience level then most pitchers her age. I'm excited to see how she handles more mature competition.

MARJANIE KNIGHTEN -- At No. 6 is Marjanie Knighten. As Sunny Hills' starting shortstop I expect confidence and consistency from this ball player. She is scrappy and knowledgeable.

NIKKI UDRIA -- At No. 4 is Mater Dei's Nikki Udria. This shortstop has quickly made waves throughout the travel ball circuit, and she is slated to start for the Monarchs this season. Her leadership in the infield is top-notch, and she is equally noteworthy in the box. Exiting things are in this youngster's future.

OLIVIA SANDUSKY -- At No. 8 is Orange Lutheran's Olivia Sandusky. I expect this hard-swinging freshman to contribute greatly to Orange Lutheran's offensive success. If she is patient at the plate, good things will come to her.

RUBY GARCIA -- No. 2 brings us Pacifica's Ruby Garcia. This stellar athlete played varsity basketball earlier this year, and she transitioned flawlessly into softball just a couple months ago. Probably Pacifica's best overall athlete, she will start at shortstop this season. I expect Garcia to have a tremendous freshman campaign and look forward to watching her grow.

SAMANTHA CORDOVA -- At No.1 is Sammy Cordova. This freshman pitcher has already been ranked nationally among the top 2013 recruits, and she will be a great addition to the Edison roster. Her mature presence in the circle, knowledge of the game and great command of her pitches makes her the best freshman player in the county.