Edwardsville Softball Eyes Another Postseason Run

Team returns core after 26-win season, looks to build on last year's success.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Edwardsville High School softball team is poised for another strong season, returning seven players who hit over .300 last year. The Tigers must replace some key seniors, but coach Caty Happe is confident in the team's depth and versatility. With an experienced pitching staff led by senior Marley Fox, and a lineup featuring power and speed, Edwardsville is eyeing another deep postseason run after coming up just short of a sectional championship in 2025.

Why it matters

Edwardsville has been a dominant force in local softball, winning 12 straight conference titles and 7 consecutive regional championships. The team's continued success is a source of pride for the community and demonstrates the strength of the program's player development and coaching. As the Tigers look to build on last year's 26-win campaign, their performance will be closely watched by fans eager to see if the team can capture an elusive sectional title.

The details

The Tigers return several key offensive contributors, including seniors Audrey De La Torre Cruz (.398, 4 HR, 35 RBIs) and Brooke Burris (.449, 2 HR, 30 RBIs). Marley Fox (.360, 15 RBIs) and Maggie Bray (.275, 11 RBIs) provide options at first base when Fox is not pitching. Sophomore Sophie Antonini (.407, 12 RBIs) returns at second base, and senior Lilly Stone (.237, 3 HR, 14 RBIs) anchors third. In the circle, Fox is expected to take on a larger role after going 5-2 with a 4.91 ERA last season, with several promising freshmen competing for innings behind her.

  • The Tigers will open the season at home against Mascoutah on March 9, 2026.
  • Edwardsville will travel to Hendersonville, Tennessee on March 13, 2026 to face Farragut, Creek Wood, and Oakland.

The players

Caty Happe

The head coach of the Edwardsville High School softball team.

Marley Fox

A senior pitcher who is expected to take on a larger role in the circle this season after going 5-2 with a 4.91 ERA in 2025.

Audrey De La Torre Cruz

A senior shortstop who hit .398 with 4 home runs and 35 RBIs last season.

Brooke Burris

A returning starter in the outfield who hit .449 with 2 home runs and 30 RBIs in 2025.

Sophie Antonini

A junior who returns at second base after hitting .407 with 12 RBIs last year.

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What they’re saying

“They've come out really excited, competing well, not taking anything for granted or thinking what they did last year translates to this year.”

— Caty Happe, Head Coach (The Tribune)

“Marley looks better than ever this year. She wants to do the bulk of the work, and she has worked a lot in the offseason.”

— Caty Happe, Head Coach (The Tribune)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.