Lansing Sun

Michigan State University's softball team is set to open its season at the Candrea Classic in Tucson, Arizona. The event, hosted by the University of Arizona, will feature teams from Alabama, Washington, Western Michigan, and Michigan State. The Spartans, under the leadership of third-year head coach Sharonda McDonald-Kelly, will face off against the No. 16-ranked Arizona Wildcats in a doubleheader on Thursday night.

The tournament honors Mike Candrea, a legendary figure in Arizona's coaching history. Following their games against Arizona, Michigan State will play against No. 11-ranked Alabama on Friday and conclude with two games against Western Michigan on Friday and Saturday.

For those unable to attend in person, Thursday's doubleheader will be available for streaming on ESPN+, while the remaining matches can be viewed on FloSoftball.

This trip marks Michigan State's return to Arizona since 2023 when they participated in tournaments at Grand Canyon and Arizona State. It also serves as a homecoming for senior catcher Macy Lee from Phoenix.

Historically, Michigan State has faced Arizona only three times since 1979. Their encounters date back to the AIAW College World Series in the mid-1970s. The Spartans have previously played Alabama twice under former head coach Jacquie Joseph but suffered a narrow defeat in their last meeting in 2019.

The series between Michigan State and Western Michigan is one of the longest-standing rivalries for MSU softball. The Spartans currently hold a slight edge with a record of 48-46-1 over Western Michigan and are on a five-game winning streak against them.

Junior players Hannah Hawley and Britain Beshears along with freshman Jacey Schuler have been highlighted as key players for this season by the Big Ten conference office. Hawley was recognized as an All-B1G second-team player last year while Beshears received NFCA All-Great Lakes region third-team honors.

Hawley had an impressive sophomore year leading her team in several offensive categories including batting average and hits. Beshears emerged as one of B1G's top power hitters ranking high nationally for home runs per game during the previous season.

Senior pitcher Madison Taylor showed improvement throughout last season ending with strong performances including consecutive scoreless innings against Purdue.

The team's captains for this season include graduate student Jenae Wash along with seniors Macy Lee and juniors Hannah Hawley and Britain Beshears who are expected to provide leadership both on and off the field.