Northeast Ohio softball season features key returning players

The cleveland.com Preseason All-Star team has been announced as the 2025 softball season begins in Northeast Ohio. This year features a mix of returning stars and new talents. Last season, nineteen players from the region earned recognition on the All-Ohio teams. Ten of those players have graduated, including four first-team selections: pitchers Natalie Susa, Anna Wise, and McKenna Metzger, along with outfielder Destiny Ruggiero. They are now pursuing college softball careers at various universities. Among the returning players are three first-team All-Ohio recipients: catchers Caleigh Shaulis and Sophie Schechterman, and outfielder Morgan Muncy. They will lead the All-Star team this year. Pitcher Rachel Baker from Manchester had an impressive season last year. She struck out 236 players in 128 innings and ended with an 18-4 record. Other notable pitchers include Maddie Burge and Lilly Young, who also had strong performances last season. In the catching category, Shaulis hit .569 last year, while Schechterman had a batting average of .543. Both were key players for their teams. The infield features strong contenders like Ryann Allar from Medina and McKayla McGee from Walsh Jesuit. Allar achieved a .592 batting average, while McGee recorded eight home runs. In the outfield, Jessica Conner made a splash as a sophomore with a .588 average. Ella Girard also stood out for her speed and consistency on the field. Overall, the 2025 softball season in Northeast Ohio promises to showcase talent and excitement as these top players take the field.