As a pitcher, Leigh Ann LaFave Sayers was a standout from the moment that she stepped into the circle for Alma.
A four time First Team All-MIAA selection, LaFave was also recognized on the national stage, garnering All-Region honors on two occasions, and one All-American honor.
As a freshman, LaFave pitched 111 innings, registering a 1.01 ERA, and striking out 89 to just eight walks. She allowed just 16 earned runs, and threw a no-hitter against Siena Heights. In just her first season, LaFave ranked 22nd nationally in terms of ERA.
In her sophomore season, LaFave pitched 135 innings, posting a 0.78 ERA, and striking out 151 while walking 13. She allowed 15 earned runs while posting a 17-3 record and recording 10 shutouts. She ranked 23rd nationally in victories, 15th in strikeouts per seven innings, and 10th in ERA.
The junior campaign for LaFave saw more improvement. LaFave registered 145 innings pitched, 144 strikeouts to 17 walks, and had an ERA of 0.58. She recorded 16 wins, three saves, nine shutouts, and allowed just 12 earned runs.
In her senior season, LaFave posted a 14-2 record, recording 10 shutouts and 11 complete games. Her strikeout to walk ratio was 119-11, and she posted her lowest ERA of 0.50.
In total, LaFave pitched 489 innings, and recorded 503 strikeouts. Her career ERA was 0.72, and she recorded a record of 59-15 with 6 saves.
