SHS Sachems Spring Sports Roundup: Baseball sets tone, softball builds around youth movement

By Dom Nicastro

Saugus High School spring teams are preparing for the 2026 season with baseball leaning on experienced senior leadership and softball embracing a youthful roster with high upside. As the Sachems gear up for opening week, both programs are focused on establishing identity early in what figures to be a competitive season across the Northeastern Conference (NEC).

Baseball leans on senior leadership, sets tone for new-look roster

Saugus baseball enters the season with a mix of experience and transition after graduating nine seniors from last year’s 8-12 team, but the foundation remains strong with a senior-led group expected to guide the program. This year, the Sachems roll out two teams: a JV team and a varsity, totaling 23 athletes, according to second-year coach Mike Mabee.

The Sachems will be anchored by four senior captains — Jordan Rodriguez, Nathan Soroko, Chris Mazin and Brayden Crawford — each bringing a unique presence to the lineup. Rodriguez, a four-year starter, has been one of the team’s most versatile players, capable of impacting the game at multiple positions, while also contributing on the mound and offensively. Soroko provides stability behind the plate as a catcher who “works his tail off” and has earned a college opportunity at Colby-Sawyer. Mazin brings a team-first mentality and athleticism to the outfield, while Crawford is expected to take on a major role as the team’s ace after a dominant showing last season.

“All four of these young men have set the example for the culture we are looking for in Saugus baseball, and I can’t wait for them to lead us this season.” Mabee said.

With many returning players gaining their experience at the junior varsity level last year, Saugus will rely heavily on preparation and development as the season unfolds. The coaching staff has placed a strong emphasis on fundamentals, attention to detail and improving at the plate, using video analysis and specialized training tools to refine hitting mechanics.

“We’re gonna approach every game like a playoff game and our mindset is to win every single pitch of the game,” Mabee said.

Competing in the Northeastern Conference, where “there are no days off,” the Sachems are looking to establish themselves as a program that can compete with the league’s top teams on a nightly basis.

Softball embraces youth while aiming to stay competitive in NEC

Saugus softball enters the season in a transition year, but one filled with energy and potential as a young roster looks to continue the program’s consistent success. The Sachems are coming off a 12-8 season and their ninth consecutive tournament appearance, and despite a preliminary round loss to eventual state finalist Hudson, the foundation remains strong.

“Without question, this will be the youngest team we’ve had during my tenure here,” coach Steve Almquist said.

With 25 players in the program — including 13 on varsity and 12 on junior varsity — Saugus is building toward the future while still maintaining expectations of competitiveness.

“What has really impressed me so far with this group is their enthusiasm, effort and eagerness to learn,” Almquist said. “They have a love and passion for the game, which is refreshing, and, although young, I think that they are on a mission to prove that they belong at this level.”

The Sachems will lean on a mix of young talent and experienced leadership, with freshman Sofia McCarrier returning as the team’s top pitcher after a standout rookie season in which she earned seven wins and a save. She will be supported by eighth grader Jenna O’Donnell and freshman Layla DeMonte, who adds versatility both in the field and in the circle.

Offensively, Saugus will look to replace key production from last season, with players such as junior captain Arianna Chianca, sophomore Alannah Duong and DeMonte expected to play key roles. Chianca, one of the team’s fastest players, is expected to set the tone at the top of the lineup, while Duong returns after hitting .481 last season.

Despite the youth, expectations remain high. “I fully expect us to be competitive in every game, finish the season with a winning record, compete for the NEC Lynch Division title and qualify for the state tournament for the 10th consecutive season,” Almquist said.

With strong leadership from captains Maria Silva, Sydney Deleidi and Chianca, the Sachems are focused on development while continuing to compete in one of the state’s toughest conferences.

“I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the job that our phenomenal youth program has done preparing these kids to play at the high school level,” Almquist said. “This program is loaded with outstanding coaches at all levels who truly care about the youth of this town. They do an amazing job of instructing and instilling the love of the game in these kids, which has resulted in a tremendous feeder program for us. Their program continues to grow and thrive which can only help to benefit the future of SHS softball.”

Boys tennis returns experienced core, looks to build early momentum

Saugus’ co-op boys tennis team with Northeast Metro Tech brings back a strong returning core as it prepares for the season opener. The team returns its top four singles players — Saugus’ Vinny Phan, Saugus’ Jeff Trinh, Northeast’s Gianna Berry and Saugus’ Grant Leonard — along with doubles contributor Northeast’s Ayden Kloppenburg (Saugus native), giving the Sachems a solid foundation of experience. With that group leading the way, Saugus will look to build from within and carry that experience into early-season success, beginning with its opener set for Wednesday, April 1, at Nashoba Tech.