Alabama softball lands key transfer infielder from Big 10 school

Alabama softball picked up a commitment from Michigan transfer Lauren Esman. She will play first base for the Crimson Tide.

The Alabama softball team has had some wins and losses this offseason with respect to the transfer portal. The Crimson Tide lost Megan Bloodworth, Lexi Kilfoyl, Savannah Woodard, Jenna Lord and Dallis Goodnight. However, head coach [autotag]Patrick Murphy[/autotag] was able to land some promising transfers in Emma Broadfoot and Faith Hensley.

On Monday, the program received some good news when Michigan first baseman Lauren Esman announced that she is transferring to Alabama, according to Brett Greenberg.

Esman spent three seasons in Ann Arbor. After not seeing much playing time as a freshman, she was able to earn more playing time over the past two seasons.

In 2021, she held a .304 batting average with one home run and ten runs batted in. Esman was used primarily as a designated hitter as a sophomore where she started in 30 games.  In 2022, she was featured more at first base. Esman maintained a .263 batting average last season with three home runs and 20 runs batted in.

Coach Murphy lost one of the team’s most well-rounded players in Kaylee Tow. Now, he will likely start Esman on the corner across from First-Team All-SEC selection Ashley Prange.

The 2023 roster appears to be trending in the right direction with the new additions as well as key returning players Montana Fouts, Jenna Johnson and Ally Shipman.

After a disappointing finish to last season, the Tide will look to bounce back in 2023.

Roll Tide Wire will continue to follow Alabama softball as the offseason continues.