1977 Falcons

Reprint from womenSports Pro Season Preview: Who’s Up and Who’s Out

As long as Joan Joyce pitches for the Falcons, they’ve got to be the favorites. Last year she had a 39-2 record, led the league in strikeouts (494), and had an ERA so low it virtually didn’t exist (0.13). She also threw four no-hitters and found the time to drive in 49 runs—third best in the league—and hit .286.

Behind Joyce is Kathy Krygier, who led the league in hits (139) and doubles (24), and finished third in batting at .335; Joyce Compton, who won the RBI title with 67 and tied for third in home runs (12); and Irene Shea, who hit .325. Other key players: Willie Roze, Sandy Fischer, Snooki Mulder, Sharron Backus. Watch for rookie Audi Kujala.