West Aurora's Gracie Del Toro Shines as 'Triple Threat' Softball Player

Tennessee Martin commit tallies three hits in 18-0 win over Elgin

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:37pm

A fractured, multi-perspective painting in bold colors depicting the motion and energy of a softball game, with overlapping geometric shapes and planes representing the different elements of the sport.West Aurora's Gracie Del Toro's dynamic play style is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration, highlighting her versatility as a 'triple threat' softball player.Aurora Today

West Aurora junior Gracie Del Toro, a Tennessee Martin softball commit, had a standout performance in her team's 18-0 victory over Upstate Eight Conference rival Elgin. Del Toro, known as a 'triple threat' player who can bunt, slap, and swing away, tallied three hits, three runs, and an RBI while also making a diving catch in center field.

Why it matters

Del Toro's versatility and early varsity contributions as a freshman have made her a key player for West Aurora, which is looking to build on its success this season. Her commitment to Tennessee Martin also highlights the growing recruiting interest in the talented junior.

The details

Del Toro, who started her recruiting process late but quickly committed to Tennessee Martin, is making an impact with her speed, hitting ability, and defensive skills. She uses an interesting split grip on the bat to help control her left-handed slapping approach. In the win over Elgin, Del Toro's three hits, three runs, and an RBI helped spark a 15-run third inning for West Aurora.

  • On March 2, Del Toro announced her commitment to continue her softball career at Division I Tennessee Martin.
  • On Thursday, Del Toro had a standout performance in West Aurora's 18-0 victory over Upstate Eight Conference rival Elgin.

The players

Gracie Del Toro

A junior outfielder for West Aurora High School who is committed to play softball at Division I Tennessee Martin. Known as a 'triple threat' player who can bunt, slap, and swing away.

Bella Marzullo

A West Aurora infielder who is batting .600 this season.

Macie Spenny

A West Aurora catcher/infielder who hit her third home run of the season in the win over Elgin.

Brooke Bieker

A West Aurora junior first baseman who had two doubles and five RBIs in the 18-0 victory.

McKenzie Nelson-Wilmes

A West Aurora sophomore left fielder who had two doubles and three RBIs in the 15-run third inning.

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What they’re saying

“'They said they really wanted that triple threat and that's how they view me, that I can do bunting, slapping and swinging away.'”

— Gracie Del Toro, West Aurora Junior

“'If she gets on base, she'll soon be at second and Marzullo, who's batting .600, can knock her in. But Gracie is the one who gets everything going. She takes charge in center and helps our corner outfielders. She really doesn't have an off day. She comes in with energy and a smile on her face.'”

— Randy Hayslett, West Aurora Coach

What’s next

Del Toro and West Aurora will look to continue their strong start to the season as they face more Upstate Eight Conference opponents in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Gracie Del Toro's versatility and early commitment to Tennessee Martin showcase the rising talent in West Aurora's softball program, which is building around a core group of young contributors like Del Toro, Marzullo, and Spenny.