Cross Country Helps Boost Minchew’s Pitching Ability

Ainsley Minchew started running cross country in the seventh grade to improve her stamina for softball. As the miles began accumulating, Minchew discovered another benefit of the activity. 

“I really like the mental toughness it gives me, because running is not an easy sport,” Minchew said. “The ability to quiet my mind and keep going has really helped me on the softball field. It helps me come back whenever I give up a hit or walk when I am pitching.”

A 2028 recruit from Lexington, South Carolina, Minchew has excelled in both athletic pursuits. She is a four-time all-region selection in cross country and softball for Batesburg-Leesville High School, and was named team MVP for both cross country and softball. This past season, Minchew was named co-Region Player of the Year in softball and had the highest GPA on the cross country team.

Minchew followed in her mother's footsteps by becoming a pitcher. Her mom, Sarah, played at Lander University and began coaching local softball programs while raising Minchew.

“She was the one who first started to get me into pitching, and she kind of taught me everything I know,” Minchew said. “She was always there to help me with my pitching, and will tell me exactly what I'm doing wrong and show me how to fix it.”

Last summer, Minchew helped Irmo Little League reach the quarterfinals of the Little League Junior World Series. The right-hander earned all-tournament honors after striking out 41 batters in four games. Her mom was an assistant coach on staff.

“It was an amazing experience. Much different than anything I have experienced with travel ball because of the team bonding aspect and how the different teams from around the world were able to come talk to us and we could make new friends,” Minchew said. “Everyone from the Little League organization was so nice and made the experience very enjoyable, which was another part that made this a unique experience.”

Minchew, who plays travel ball for Athletics Gold Tamborra/Vallery, has elevated her performances in the circle by working with pitching coach Rita Lynn Gilman. Her velocity has reached 70 mph, and she recorded 226 strikeouts in 106.2 innings this past season in high school ball. Among her highlights was a 20-strikeout game.

“I think it's my ability to stay calm while I'm pitching,” Minchew said of her success. “I can work back after a walk or a hit and not get too rattled.”

Along with softball and cross country, Minchew plays the viola in the school orchestra and is a Special Olympics buddy. She is the oldest of six children, including younger sisters who also pitch.

“It's kind of crazy sometimes,” she said. “There's a lot of stuff going on, but I'm really thankful for them and working around my softball schedule and letting me be able to do these sports.”