1979 Bisons

Reprint (in part) from The Morning Record and Journal (by John J. Kwolek)

Most of this year’s players were not with the club last season. In fact, the radical facelift the Bisons underwent during the winter left only six players from last year’s team with the club. Pitcher-coach Helen Nikiel is one of the remaining veterans, and although she said it is taking a lot of work to get the team together, she is satisfied with the club’s progress.

“This club is willing to work and I’m real happy with it,” Nikiel said. “It’s a great mixture of young and experienced players.” Nikiel’s task is not easy. She took over the Bisons last July after coach Ron Cassel resigned. The team finished third in what was then a four-team league.

But Nikiel does have a strong veteran pitching staff. Besides herself, she has two former Falcons, Gloria Becksford and Kathy Neal, in the rotation, along with rookie Ann Kasdorf. The infield is stocked with veterans. Hard hitting Mary Ann Cardillo will be at first, diminutive Nancy Theis will play second and Bev Slover will be the shortstop. Rookie Linda Wiemers, a first round draft pick from Oklahoma State, will get the call at third.

Catching duties will be shared by former St. Louis Hummers Bobbi Mattingly, rookie Cindy Carelton and Diane Davidson, an ex-Falcon. Stephanie Tenney, who played for Santa Ana two years ago, should see action as a utility infielder.

The outfield has only one veteran, Connie Peterson. The aggressive right fielder will be joined by Cindy Connolly in center and Janice Nichols in left. Cardillo may see spot action in the outfield. Barb Ross will be the designated hitter.