![At a group practice, sophomore Layla Gutierrez sings, while seniors Armando Gutierrez and Jaden Cerna play the electric bass and guitar. “It’s cool being in a band with [my sister], but though we’re related, sometimes our ideas in the creative process differ and cause some conflicts,” Armando said. (@hopelesssamaritanband)](https://alisaltrojantribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/067cae3d6e7e8d0fd59cd886c8c689dbc703ed15-14-1033x1200.jpg)
The varsity softball team entered this new season ready to continue building on their success from the previous two years.
After moving into the Mission division, as a result of advancing to CCS in back-to-back seasons, brought tougher competition, which the team embraced the challenge and remained focused on improving with every game.
This year’s roster includes a strong group of returning players, senior Mianicole Frias; juniors Nevaeh Lopez, Aaliyah Ruiz, and Micah Smith; and sophomores Vivica Castaneda, Iliana Cruz, and Ameryse Thatcher. Joining them this year are sophomore transfer Marley Fraga and freshmen Aubrey Jones, Ciara Manu, Chloe Rubalcava, Brooklyn Smith, Alaney Vargas, and Abigail Walker.
Several players made an impact early in the season. Nevaeh Lopez and Abigail Walker combined for a one-hitter in a win over Gonzales, while Lopez also recorded 10 strikeouts in an 11-1 win over Alvarez.
Offensively, Aailyah Ruiz, Ciara Manu, Micah Smith, Iliana Cruz have each recorded multiple hits in recent games. Brooklyn Smith added a two-run home run to secure a win over Scotts Valley. “Our pitchers have been outstanding thus far. Junior Nevaeh Lopez and Freshman Abigail Walker. The middle of our defense has also been outstanding. This includes Aaliya Ruiz, Brooklyn Smith, Micah Smith and Aubrey Jones,” Nieto said.
The team’s strengths have been evident across multiple areas of the game. In the circle, strong pitching performances have helped keep opponents scoring low, highlighted by high strikeout games. Additionally, having multiple players contributing hits and producing runs in key moments has shown what a great offense they have.
Defensively, they’ve remained solid on the field, minimizing errors and supporting their pitcher always. As the league progressed, their ability to contribute in all aspects of the game has been a key factor in their success this season.
The team shared the league title with Carmel, finishing with a 13-2 league record and an impressive 17-5 overall record. “It felt really good, great [winning league],” junior Micah Smith said. “We came off a tough season and came back this season.”
The team was seeded 7th in the Division 1 playoffs and will face #2 Piedmont Hills at Piedmont Hills on May 23. Despite not playing for over a week, the team feels confident and ready. “I feel good,” Smith said. “We’re going to break the streak [of losing in the first round].”
