Mustang Softball Team Advances to State Tourney Semi-Finals

The Mustang softball team posed with Medford Mayor Michael McGlynn after Tuesday’s game. Click here to view more game photos.

– Allison Goldsberry

The Medford High School softball team has advanced to the semi-final round of the state tournament following wins over Beverly, Lowell, and Boston Latin.

The most recent win, a 5-0 victory over Boston Latin, took place at home on Tuesday. It is the first time in school history that the softball team has gotten this far in the state tournament, according to Head Coach Jack Dempsey.

Standout junior pitcher Ashley Eisnor pitched a three hit shut-out against Boston Latin, striking out eight and allowing no bases on balls. Eisnor has given up only one run in three tournament games. She also contributed a solid run in Medford’s victory with a single.

Hot-hitting senior captain Brianna Napoleone singled, doubled, and drove home a run while senior captain Hannah O’Leary did the same. Junior Gigi Braga brought home a run with a double that sailed over the left-fielder’s head. Junior Renee Staude stole a base and also drove home a run while senior captain Bailey Flynn contributed a base hit.

Medford has made some incredible defensive plays in its state tournament appearance. Flynn has executed two outstanding running catches while third baseman Julie Mitrano and centerfielder Braga have made some clutch diving catches. Senior captain Julia Kearney was outstanding behind the plate, throwing out two opponents at second base. Napoleone, per usual, made a number of big plays in all three games while senior left-fielder Mary Donnelly made some nice running grabs in the outfield.

The Lady Mustangs now face Central Catholic, who upset top seed Newton North. Medford and Central Catholic will take the field at 4 PM on Thursday at Martin Field in Lowell.