The NIU softball can thank junior transfer Lindsey LaChiana for 12 of its 18 wins this season.

A transfer from Loyola, LaChiana has posted an 11-6 record with one save for NIU.

The Horizon League’s co-pitcher of the year last season has also registered 91 strikeouts this spring. Senior Kathy Dearborn led NIU last season with 89 punchouts.

Carrying a 1.89 ERA, LaChiana took time with the Northern Star Wednesday to discuss her transfer, 113 innings pitched and why she would never have been an extra in “A League of Their Own.”

Northern Star: Why come to NIU?

Lindsey LaChiana: It was mainly based on the accounting program being nationally ranked. I came here and wanted to play. It’s worked out good.

NS: Did you know coming in you would be the staff’s ace?

LL: I knew [Kathy] Dearborn was the No. 1 last year and NIU was bringing in [Taryn Hagemann], who throws pretty hard. I thought things would be pretty evened out.

NS: You’ve pitched 19 innings more than the rest of the staff. How is your arm holding up?

LL: I pitched a lot last year, so I’m used to it. Actually, the more I pitch, the better I feel.

NS: Compared to baseball pitchers, how is it possible for softball pitchers to throw over 200 innings a season?

LL: It’s a natural throwing motion. I get knots in my shoulder and it gets sore, but there’s never a point when it doesn’t loosen up after I warm up to pitch.

NS: In the spirit of good fun, given the choice, would you rather wear your current uniform or a skirt like in “A League of Their Own?”

LL: Definitely our current uniform. I don’t even like to wear shorts at all.