Softball Coverage, presented by APR Physical Therapy: Westwood Begins New Era, Looking to Build on Program Success

March 30, 2026

As registration numbers in the Westwood Youth Softball continue to surge, the high school softball team is looking to build on the momentum of the most successful string of seasons in program history.
 
Last year’s squad advanced to the Elite Eight of the Division 2 MIAA Tournament for the first time, led largely by the pitching prowess of Bridget Mulkeen, who graduated and is currently playing at Holy Cross. Moving forward, under the leadership of new head coach Caroline Mitchell, a pair of new faces will be in the pitching circle and the path to victory has changed dramatically.
 
As Julia Tartufo and Alexis Cahill assume pitching responsibilities, more balls will be in play and defense will be at a premium. Moving to shortstop is Izzy Walsh, the squad’s best athlete, who is expected to smoothly make the transition and spearhead the infield cohesion. She’ll join Eve Clinton (1B) and Abby Johnson (3B) as regulars, with who’s covering second base being determined as the season evolves. Freshman Maggie Lutze opened the season at second base against Norton.
 
Katherine Granata takes over for Walsh at catcher, and proved last year she can manage a game behind the plate. With more at-bats, Granata will undoubtedly contribute offensively.
 
The outfield will feature Julia Raffoni, Mady McMann and Mia Poles, when she returns from a knee injury, and a number of players who will rotate between infield and outfield duties – Brooke Benger, Mia French and Bella Gentile.
 
The early schedule is extremely challenging, but as the season evolves, the squad should continue to gel and prove to be competitive in the TVL Large.
 
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