Jasper Softball Looks to Seniors for Leadership in 2026 Season

Experienced roster returns six starters, aims to improve pitching depth

Mar. 17, 2026 at 8:08am

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Jasper softball is gearing up for the 2026 season with a veteran-laden roster, led by six returning starters, many of whom are seniors. The team will rely heavily on the competitiveness and experience of these senior players to guide the younger members of the squad. Pitching depth is a key focus, with Chloe Storm, Aspen Lehman, and Callie Helms all expected to contribute in the circle.

Why it matters

Jasper softball is looking to build on last year's 10-win season and make a deeper postseason run. The team's experienced core, combined with an emphasis on developing pitching depth, could position them as a contender in their conference and region.

The details

Chloe Storm, an all-district and all-region selection last year, will anchor the pitching staff after throwing 106.1 innings in 2025. Aspen Lehman, who missed last season due to injury, and freshman Callie Helms will also see time in the circle, providing more options and flexibility for head coach Justin Sentlinger. Offensively, the team returns several key contributors, including catcher Natalie Storm, who had an OPS of 1.049 with 18 RBIs and 18 runs scored in 2025.

  • Jasper opens the 2026 season on March 20-21 at the Joplin Area Tournament.

The players

Chloe Storm

Pitched 106.1 innings last season, had 84 strikeouts, and was an all-district and all-region selection.

Aspen Lehman

Missed last season due to injury but is expected to contribute in the circle this year, providing more pitching depth.

Callie Helms

A freshman who is showing great promise and will also vie for time in the pitching rotation.

Natalie Storm

The team's starting catcher, she had an OPS of 1.049 with 18 RBIs and 18 runs scored in 2025.

Justin Sentlinger

Jasper's head coach, who is focused on developing more pitching depth and having his experienced seniors lead the way.

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What they’re saying

“We will rely heavily on our seniors this year. They all have a ton of experience and have played big roles on winning teams. We will rely on their competitiveness, and their experience to help some of the younger players come along.”

— Justin Sentlinger, Head Coach

“Chloe Storm was an all-district and all region selection last year. Her best attribute is her toughness, and also she developed a good off speed pitch that really helped her later in the season.”

— Justin Sentlinger, Head Coach

“Aspen Lehman being back from injury is a huge boost for us. She was hurt in the last week of basketball season last year, and that was a hard pill to swallow. She has came back this year and hasn't missed a beat. She is even vying for time in the circle which will be huge for a depth.”

— Justin Sentlinger, Head Coach

What’s next

The team will open the season at the Joplin Area Tournament on March 20-21, where they will look to set the tone for the year with a strong start.

The takeaway

Jasper softball is poised for a successful 2026 campaign, leveraging its experienced senior leadership and improved pitching depth to compete for a conference and postseason run. The team's competitiveness and willingness to play 'with their hair on fire' could make them a formidable opponent throughout the season.