Jennifer Bagley Trotter is widely regarded as the most dominant pitcher in Minnesota State University Moorhead softball history. A four-year starter from 1993 to 1996, she anchored the Dragons’ pitching staff and graduated as the program’s all-time leader in strikeouts with 590—a record that underscores her sustained excellence and competitive fire in the circle.
Bagley Trotter, a native of Hoyt Lakes, Minnesota, was instrumental in leading MSUM to back-to-back NAIA National Tournament appearances in 1995 and 1996, marking one of the most successful stretches in program history. Her on-field performance earned her All-NSIC honors in both years. In 1995 she led the NSIC with 55 strikeouts and led or was tied for lead in complete games in NSIC play. She still ranks within MSUM’s top five in career complete games (82), ERA (1.59), wins (51), shutouts (17) and games started (85). A true all-around athlete, she also lettered in golf during her collegiate career.
After her playing days, Bagley Trotter quickly transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant at Humboldt State University in California before being named the head coach at Missouri Western State University in 2002. Her coaching career continued its upward trajectory, and she now leads the softball program at the University of St. Thomas, where she continues to impact the game through her leadership, mentorship, and passion for player development.Bagley Trotter’s legacy in softball—as both a record-breaking athlete and accomplished coach—remains a powerful testament to her talent, dedication, and lifelong commitment to the sport.