The Triple Crown is one of the most difficult accomplishments in baseball and softball. For instance, only 27 baseball players from 1878 have earned it at the professional level and the last was in 2012.

In Arizona, Desert Christian sophomore standout Alexa Yarger led the state, regardless of conference level, in home runs, runs batted in and batting percentage. Yarger also leads the state in Slugging Percentage (1.928).

 

HOME RUNS

20: Alexa Yarger, So. Desert Christian (Second in the Nation for sophomores, 12th overall)

108 plate appearances in 25 games.

 

18: Lauren Putz, Sr. Xavier Prep

126 plate appearances in 33 games.

 

18: April Neill, Jr. Joseph City

117 plate appearances in 31 games.

 

RUNS BATTED IN

74:  Alexa Yarger, So. Desert Christian (Leads the Nation for sophomores, seventh overall)

108 plate appearances in 25 games.

 

69: Rowan Asanovich, So. Heritage Academy

112 plate appearances in 28 games.

 

63: April Neill, Jr. Joseph City

117 plate appearances in 31 games.

 

BATTING AVERAGE

.747 (62-83) Alexa Yarger, So. Desert Christian (Ninth in the Nation for sophomores, 24th overall)

.724 (55-76) Tamarie Williams, So. River Valley

.713 (67-94) Josie Barden, So. Horizon Honors

 

“Going into the season we had lots of unknowns,” Yarger said. “However, we came together as a team, competed for our region and made it to the quarterfinals but came up short. Leading Arizona in home runs, RBI’s, and batting average is a tremendous honor and reflects the hard work and dedication I put into the game. This would not be possible without the constant support from my family, coaches, and teammates.

“As I go into summer, I aim to continue improving and competing with my team, Rogue FC Mabrey. I am excited to see what we can accomplish together.”

Alexa Yarger. (Andy Morales/AZPreps365)