Montclair Kimberley Academy softball: Cougars pitching for a better record in 2023
The Montclair Kimberley softball team is hoping to take small steps forward during the season that will lead to a better record.
Last year the Cougars rallied to finish at .500 (10-10), and head coach Jessica Sarfati believes the return of several players, along with newcomers expected to contribute, will culminate in a winning mark.
"We are hoping to do a little better” than it did last season, Sarfati said. "We also just want to be consistent and make plays in the field so we can back up the girls who are working so hard in the circle."
The pitching spot will be commanded mainly by junior Lucy Osterberg, who saw some time in the circle last season, while freshman Maudie Lamuscio will also be throwing some innings.
"She split time there last year, but she has been such a true leader, showing us her grit and desire out there," Sarfati said of Osterberg. "She’s really acting like a team player, and we are so proud of her for taking on this giant role."
But the keys this season will be the defense behind either pitcher, both of whom are inexperienced compared to those of many of the top teams in the Super Essex Conference, as well as the offense.
"We have great hitters, so we want to make the plays in the field to give our hitters chances at the plate," Sarfati said.
Offensively, the Cougars have their top two hitters back in senior shortstop Alex Berra and junior centerfielder Ellie LoPiccolo. Both were named to the All SEC Colonial Division first team in 2022 and fill two of the key spots on the diamond.
Berra led the Cougars in RBI with 25 while hitting .408.
"Alex is the kind of leader that is selfless, consistent, she’s dedicated, and she’s so passionate about our team," the coach said. "She’s really a dynamic person, and I am really excited to see her grow in her final season with us."
LoPiccolo led Montclair Kimberley in batting last season at .508 as well as in runs with 32 and hits with 29. But her versatility and ability to play catcher make her one of the top players in the SEC Colonial.
"Ellie will do everything for us because that’s just the kind of player she is," Sarfati said. "She was noticed last year by so many coaches for her outstanding efforts in center field, and when I can keep her there I will, but she will also see time behind the plate."
The Cougars also will be bolstered by senior Natalie Yu, who competed in track and field last season and will be a major plus with the bat as well as in the outfield.
"She’s playing outfield, and we have loved having her out there," the coach said. "Natalie is a huge asset to our team. She’s a great hitter, amazing arm, great base runner, and she tries hard for every single play."
Two seniors returning who are expected to be major contributors on and off the field are co-captains Amara Lerner and Maddie Wheeler.
Lerner could see time at several positions, with her top spots being first base and catcher.
"Amara has really stepped up, volunteering to catch and do whatever is needed for the team," Sarfati said. "She also has a great bat, so we are thrilled to have her in the middle of our lineup."
Wheeler’s leadership as well as her play in the outfield are her best qualities, the coach said. "Maddie has a great attitude and brings our team together every day," she said.
Two new players expected to make a major impact are sophomore Marin Ievers and junior Eunice Fernandez. Ievers will play at first base as well as at third, while Fernandez will see time in the outfield.
"Marin can play anywhere, and she’s a great hitter and base runner, so we are looking forward to having her with us," Sarfati said.
The coach said about Fernandez: "She has a strong arm and will definitely help us out at the plate."
In terms of the battle for the SEC Colonial Division, Montclair Kimberley will have to best West Orange and Belleville, which moved down from the Liberty Division to the Colonial.
Sarfati’s hopes are like those from last season, when the Cougars played their best ball at the end of the spring. "I think that as we gel as a team we will win games," she said.
Montclair Kimberley Softball Schedule
(Games at 4 p.m. unless noted)
April 14 West Caldwell Tech
April 17 at Belleville
April 19 at East Side
April 21 Technology
April 24 at West Orange
April 27 at Orange
April 29 Essex County Tournament, TBD
May 1 Glen Ridge
May 3 Essex County Tournament, TBD
May 4 Prep B Tournament, TBD
May 6 Essex County Tournament, TBD
May 8 Irvington
May 9 Prep B Tournament, TBD
May 10 at Newark Tech
May 11 Prep B Tournament, TBD
May 12 Belleville
May 16 St. Vincent De Paul
May 17 Oak Knoll
May 22 Payne Tech