Middletown South H.S. 2024 Softball Preview

Credits:Middletown South H.S. Athletics

MIDDLETOWN, NJ -- The Middletown South softball team will look to the considerable overall experience of its roster to aim for a bounce-back season in 2024.

The Eagles will open their campaign on Monday, April 1 at home against Freehold Township.

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Middletown South posted a 4-15 record last season, but seven of those defeats were by three runs or fewer, and 10 players from that team return for 2024.

"We're excited for our young pitching staff of Riley Smith and Celia Collings to limit run production and give depth on the mound," coach Lisa Smith said.

Riley Smith and Collings are both freshmen, two of the few players who don't bring back varsity experience this season.

"We have 10 returners who all have varsity experience and can play multiple positions, including Ella Gardner, Gianna Pancione, Marianna Varno and Jessica Franco," coach Smith said. "Offensive leaders for us include Kathyrn Martin, Ella Mullane, Brooke Lisowski, Kathryn Dolye, Francesca Pancione and Dani Cangelosi."

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Cangelosi, Doyle and Lisowski led the Eagles in batting average last season, with each of them batting between .360 and .370. Lisowski scored a team-high 13 runs, and Cangelosi's 11 runs batted in were the second-most on the team.

"Freshmen Nora Sarcone, behind the plate, and Ciara Sparandero (in the infield) will bring natural athleticism to our lineup," the coach said.

"We're looking for strong  leadership from our returners," coach Smith said. "They understand the competition and what needs to be done to win at this level. Our schedule is extremely competitive."

Following the opening game, Middletown South will play at Middletown North on Wednesday, April 3.

"We do not have one easy game," coach Smith said, "(but) won't be easy to take down this season."

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