2025 Salem State Softball Preview
Salem State softball hopes to build on the momentum created last season under second-year head coach Ryan Leahy, who guided the Vikings to a 7-7 record and fourth place finish in the MASCAC. This was Salem State's best conference mark since 2018 and the team's 14 wins (14-26) were four games better than the previous season.
Season Outlook
Picked fourth in the MASCAC 2025 Softball Pre-Season Poll, the Vikings are well positioned to continue their upward trajectory as they look to continue to climb in the standings. Salem State returns a strong core in 2025, led by All-MASCAC First Team selection Alaina Giuliano (Malden, Mass.), who set a Salem State record with 31 walks last season, while leading the conference in on base percentage (.483). Shortstop and 2024 Team MVP Sam Gaona (Billerica, Mass.) also returns. A dynamic defensive player with elite speed on the bases, she was the team's leading hitter (.336) last year. Gracie Martineau (Westminster, Mass.) will anchor the pitching staff for the Vikings. The junior is the most experienced returner having started 16 games a seaon ago, producing a solid 1.92 whip.
Alison Frost (Aubrun, Mass. ) is also back after starting every game in 2024. The centerfielder led Salem State with 21 stolen bases and was second in walks with 19. Senior Dawn Eisnor (Medford, Mass.) will start at first base this season for Salem State. Eisnor topped the Vikings with seven doubles and was among the team leaders in RBI – 20 and hits – 28.
2025 New Players to Watch
Tara Perryman (Freshman, San Juan Capistrano, Calif. / Dana Hills) - Tara will make an immediate impact both in the circle and at the plate. She's a highly decorated recruit and brings defensive versatility, with the potential to bat in the middle of our lineup.
Taylor McDermott (Grad Transfer, Curry College) - Taylor had a great career at Curry and will look to continue her success with us, providing depth and power in the middle of the order.
Captain's Quote
2025 captains: Sam Gaona (Billerica, Mass.), Isabella Perrotti (Winthrop, Mass.), Emily Henning (Grafton, Mass.), and Gracie Martineau (Westminster, Mass.)
"Our goals remain consistent. We want to improve every day, push each other, and create a great atmosphere of camaraderie. We're committed to playing with tenacity, grit, and supporting one another as teammates. Ultimately, our focus is competing for a MASCAC title at the end of the season."
Coach's Take
"We're re excited to build on last year's momentum. With our entire coaching staff returning, a strong group of returning players, and an outstanding freshman class, we are confident we can continue to improve and compete at a high level.
Season Opener
Salem State opens the season at home against UMaine Presque Isle on Sunday, March 09 @ 11:00 AM.
2025 MASCAC Softball Pre-Season Poll
1. Westfield State (6) 48 points
2. Framingham State (1) 41 points
3. Worcester State (1) 39 points
4. Bridgewater State 27 points
4. Salem State 27 points
5. Fitchburg State 20 points
6. Massachusetts Maritime 14 points
7. MCLA 8 points