MUSKEGON TOWNSHIP – The Reeths-Puffer softball team may seem like an average squad with a 12-10 record, until you look at the most recent results and see that the Rockets have won six of their last seven games.

One of those six wins includes a 5-4 victory over Rockford, which was ranked honorable mention in the Division 1 Michigan High School Softball Coaches Association poll on May 11.

The hot streak and big win have given senior standout Caitlynn Duffey and her teammates hope of finishing the season strong and winning a district championship on June 4.

“I’m excited for it,” said Duffey about the renewed optimism within the Rocket dugout. “We have so much potential and talent on the team. When we get on a hot streak like we are, I think that it can take us a long way. The confidence we’re getting from playing good teams and winning will help us in the long run.”

Reeths-Puffer senior pitcher/infielder Caitlynn Duffey

Duffey has played key roles in many games this season, as a pitcher and hitter. In a recent 3-2 win over Holland she struck out 18 and only allowed three hits. In an 8-5 win over Mona Shores, she had three hits – two doubles and a home run.

Her offensive stats are among the best in the area. Duffey leads the Rockets with five home runs and a .820 slugging percentage while also hitting for a .380 average with 26 RBIs so far this season.

“I want to win every pitch,” she said about her mental approach at the plate. “Whether it’s good pitch selection, or working the count, I want to win. I just love being put in pressure situations, and I love being up there and having to be a leader. I think that when I hit the ball, that leads to more hits, and we usually get on a streak as a team.”

Reeths-Puffer head coach Sarah Ferenz believes that Duffey’s approach at the plate is what leads her to success.

Duffey dances around third base after hitting a home run earlier this season. Photo/Steve Gunn

“She’s pretty focused and calm,” the coach said. “She knows what she’s looking for and she does a good job of making adjustments to pitchers. She has the same approach every time and she’s looking for something she can get a hold of. If it’s not there, she’ll fight it off.”

A more consistent approach is something Duffey has worked on after starting out hot last season at the plate, then eventually fading off.

“I think this year has gone pretty well compared to last,” Duffey said. “I’ve been more consistent at the plate, which was one of my main goals. At the end of last season, I began travel ball and then started training. I focused on doing basic things and working on my mechanics.”

Another area where Duffey has shined is on the mound, where she leads the Rockets with 101 strikeouts in 62 innings of work.

Duffey, left, works with a teammate during hitting practice off a tee. Photo/Steve Gunn

“Consistency has been a big thing for her,” Ferenz said. “She’s been more consistent on the plate and has fewer walks on the mound. We’re seeing much more consistency and a calmer composure on the mound.”

Duffey admits that being in charge on the mound is one of her favorite parts of being on the softball field.

“In reality, I have some type of control over every pitch when I’m on the mound,” she said. “That’s why pitching is probably my favorite part. With my personality, I like having some type of control over what I do.”

That ability to control and overpower opposing hitters has made other teams wary of Duffey, according to Ferenz.

Duffey with her coach Sarah Ferenz and Ferenz’ baby boy, who is only about a week old. Photo/Steve Gunn

“Teams are aware of her and know she’ll bring it,” the coach said. “I’ve heard from other teams that she’s kind of scary. She knows that and is aware of it. She kind of likes that she has that presence.

“Once you get to know her, she has a goofy personality that comes out. She likes to be silly and all of those things. But she also comes with a purpose in everything she does, and she tries to keep people in check. I think she’s grown in that way. She’s been really good about being there for teammates and trying to keep positive.”

Duffey is hopeful that she can keep leading the Rockets to a great finish this season.

“It’s so enjoyable right now,” she said. “Seeing the girls on my team get excited that things are going well and getting excited for each other is the best part. Putting in all of our hard work is paying off. It has really given us some confidence.”