Edgewood heads into the 2023 season with six returning starters and an influx of new talent that should help the Warriors improve upon their 8-8 record from last season.
With seven letter winners returning, the Warriors have plenty of experience and now quality depth.
“I think we have a great outlook for the season,” said Edgewood coach Randy Vencill. “We have some young talent mixed with some leadership and we expect to compete all year long. I expect us to compete in most games this season. We will have some growing pains with girls in new positions but regardless, I know they will give their all.”
The Warriors have to replace a pair of seniors who earned honorable mention All-Chagrin Valley Conference honors last season in Bella Varkett and Claire Randolph.
They’ll lean on junior McKenna Vencill, a first-team All-CVC performer last spring, and senior Sophia Paolillo, who earned second-team all-conference honors.
Vencill will patrol center field while Paolillo will lock down shortstop.
The rest of Edgewood’s projected starting lineup includes catcher Avary Toth, first baseman Natalie Ianetta, second baseman Addy Lamson, third baseman Mackaylee Overly, and outfielders Brianna Melaragno and Gianna Ianetta.
Melaragno will play left while Ianetta will be in right field.
Makenna Rhodes will fill the designated player role.
Leading the charge in the circle is freshman Lucianna Paolillo. She’ll share innings with Vencill, Juliaunna Gregory, and Adrianna Barnes.
Lamson and Natalie Ianetta are freshmen Coach Vencill is excited about seeing in action this spring.
“Our senior leadership is our team strength,” Vencill said. “The seniors know what the expectations are and they lead by example daily.”
With the pieces in place, Edgewood has an opportunity to push Perry for the CVC Lake Division title, but the Warriors have to consistently play fundamental softball to make that happen.
“We have to pitch it, catch it, and hit it,” Vencill said.
