Softball Signs Former Michigan State Pitcher

BILLINGS, Mont.  – Montana State Billings head softball coach, Anthony Stone, has announced that Shae Bass, a 5’9” pitcher who has played at Michigan State the past two seasons, has signed on to play for the Yellowjackets and will transfer to the school beginning in the fall of 2009.

“Shae will be a great addition to our program for the upcoming season,” Stone said. “Given the loss of our two senior pitchers, we needed to reload our staff with some experience. Shae will fit into that role nicely, and with the return of Kasie Conder (GNAC Freshman of the Year, 16-4, 1.52 ERA) and Josie Grotbo (6-1 in eight appearances), we should be pretty tough in the circle again this year.”

Bass, originally from Santee, Calif., appeared in 23 games, starting 13, during her freshman campaign in 2008. She finished the year with an 8-6 record and a 3.93 ERA with one save. Bass recorded 50 strikeouts in 78 innings pitched for the Spartans. Her three-straight victories at the Seminole Classic in Tallahassee, Fla., led the Spartans to the tournament title and a spot on the all-tournament team. Bass scored victories over Wisconsin and Ohio State, going 2-1 in Big Ten Conference play that season.

Prior to Michigan State, Bass was a four-year letter winner at Santana High School in softball and basketball. She was an honorable mention state athlete of the year in both sports during 2005. Bass earned various first-team awards, including All-Grossmont League, All-CIF Division III, All-East County, and was also named All-East County pitcher of the year in 2006.