Dakota Buttrey Named Heart Player of the Week

Dakota Buttrey was named the Heart of America Player of the Week for the first time this spring following her stellar performance in the batter's box.

The honor is for the week of April 16-22, during which time Buttrey played in all 12 of the Yellowjackets' contests in the outfield.

Buttrey helped guide the Yellowjackets to a 7-5 week. She hit 0.432 with a slugging percentage of 0.886. She compiled 19 hits including six home runs and two doubles. She drove in 15 RBI and scored 14 runs.

"Dakota is the spark that ignites our offense," said Todd Verwers, head coach. "Not your traditional leadoff hitter but her productivity and power warrants getting her that extra at-bat each game. A great defensive player as well, Dakota is one of our most versatile players."

The week started off with Buttrey producing a two-run home run in game one against Haskell Indian Nationals University and in game two against Clarke University. She then came up key to give the Yellowjackets the lead in the fourth inning of game two of the Benedictine College doubleheader with a grand slam. She also hit a three-run home run to end game two against Mount Mercy University.

The week also featured Buttrey setting a couple of school records. She became the single-season home-run leader and the career home-run record holder.

On the year, Buttrey is hitting 0.389 with a team-leading 42 total hits, including 12 home runs.

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