One of the biggest questions Alabama softball faces heading into the 2024 season is who will replace ace pitcher Montana Fouts.

Fouts completed her NCAA eligibility following the completion of the 2023 season. She finished her five-year career with the Tide (2019-23) making 160 appearances with an ERA of 1.66 to go along with 1,181 strikeouts and 570 hits allowed in 852.2 innings pitched.

Of the six pitchers on the Crimson Tide's 2024 roster, senior Jaala Torrence is expected to fill Fouts' role as Alabama's ace. Looking at her new role this upcoming season, Torrence said she is excited.

"I would say this pitching staff that we have is really exciting," Torrence said. "There's six of us, and I feel like we all bring something different to the table and I feel like that's going to be our biggest strength this season, and I'm excited. I'm excited to hit the field with everybody."

Torrence has made 55 appearances for the Crimson Tide, earning herself an ERA of 2.20 with 150 strikeouts in 175.1 innings pitched. In NCAA Regional play last season, she struck out 17 batters and allowed three walks while going 3-0 through 18.2 scoreless innings pitched.

Also on the Alabama pitching staff are returners Lauren Esman, Jocelyn Briski and Alex Salter, along with newcomers Alea Johnson and Kayla Beaver.

"I think we are going to bring back just a phenomenal team that does it the right way," Alabama softball assistant coach Kayla Braud said. "I think we have a ton of speed, a ton of athleticism, and I think we are going to surprise a lot of people this year, so I'm really excited for what's to come."

Alabama softball opens its 2024 season on the road vs. Villanova on Feb. 8, and opens play at Rhoads Stadium on Feb. 16, hosting St. Thomas in the 2024 Easton Bama Bash. SEC play begins in March with the Crimson Tide hosting Florida, March 9-11.

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Anna Snyder covers high school sports and University of Alabama recruiting for The Tuscaloosa News. Reach her at asnyder@gannett.com. Follow her on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, @annaesnyder2

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Alabama softball: Who will replace ace pitcher Montana Fouts in 2024?