There’s something about a softball game that just feels like home. The sharp pop of a fastball hitting the catcher’s mitt. The rhythmic chatter from the dugout. The unmistakable ping of a well-struck ball followed by the collective roar of the crowd. These are the moments that turn a simple contest into a memory.
However, the 2024 season didn’t deliver enough of those winning moments for the Fairfield University softball team. A 14-33 overall record and 10-14 mark in MAAC play reflected struggles in offensive production, pitching depth and defensive execution—barriers that prevented the Stags from building momentum. But despite the setbacks, flashes of competitiveness, particularly in conference play, provided hope. Now, the mission is clear: refine the details, find consistency and climb the MAAC standings.
One of Fairfield’s biggest challenges last season was offensive production. The Stags hit just .236 as a team, ranking near the bottom of the MAAC, while opponents batted .320 against them. Infielder Morgan Sylvestre ‘25 was a lone bright spot, leading the team with a .375 average, 51 hits, and a team-best on-base percentage. Meanwhile, outfielder Charli Warren ‘25 provided a spark, hitting .325 with six triples and 35 runs scored.
Despite individual success, Fairfield often struggled to generate sustained offense, leaving runners stranded and missing key opportunities. To address this, the coaching staff has emphasized plate discipline, lineup depth and situational hitting. A stronger bottom-of-the-order presence will be key to preventing prolonged scoring droughts and easing pressure on Sylvestre and Warren.
Fairfield’s 4.86 ERA ranked in the lower half of the MAAC, and depth in the circle remained an issue. Former Stag pitcher Bailey Taylor ‘24 provided reliability, finishing with a 7-6 record and 3.44 ERA over 95.2 innings, but support was inconsistent. Left-hander Alyssa Weinberg ‘26 endured an up-and-down season, posting a 4-10 record with a 5.47 ERA.
For Fairfield to take a step forward, its returning pitchers must be more consistent, and added depth is necessary. That’s where newcomer Grace Conrad ‘28, from Sparta; New Jersey, comes in. If she adjusts quickly to the college level, she could log significant innings and provide much-needed stability. Developing a reliable No. 2 or No. 3 starter will be crucial in preventing Weinberg from being overworked.
Defensively, the Stags recorded a .961 fielding percentage with 32 errors—not the worst in the MAAC, but costly in close games. Defensive miscues often extended innings, adding unnecessary stress to the pitching staff.
This offseason, Fairfield has placed a strong emphasis on communication, infield footwork, and defensive positioning. Infielder Martina Gutierrez ‘26 will anchor the infield, while rookie Evelyn Wozniak ‘28 (Orchard Park, N.Y.) brings versatility across multiple positions. The overarching goal is to execute routine plays, limit errors, and force opponents to earn every run.
Fairfield’s non-conference slate will provide an early barometer for improvement. The Stags will face Campbell and Georgia Southern before taking on UConn, Boston College, and St. John’s—tough opponents that will test their progress before MAAC play begins.
Within the conference, Canisius and Marist remain top contenders, while Rider and Siena—two teams that edged out Fairfield in tight games last season—represent key matchups that could define the Stags’ place in the standings.
For Fairfield to leap forward in 2025, three key areas must improve:
- Offensive efficiency: The lineup must capitalize on scoring opportunities by improving situational hitting and balance. Last season, the team relied heavily on speed and contact hitting, but too often failed to convert with runners on base.
- Pitching depth: Alyssa Weinberg is set to step into the ace role, while freshman Grace Conrad’s development could be a game-changer in stabilizing the rotation.
- Defensive execution: Reducing errors and improving fundamentals will be key in turning close losses into wins.
Despite last season’s struggles, the Stags excelled in the classroom, with 11 players named to the MAAC All-Academic Team. The coaching staff remains committed to maintaining that standard, ensuring that players succeed both on and off the field.
With the kickoff to the GATA Challenge against Campbell Univeristy on Feb 21, Fairfield has an early opportunity to showcase its growth against strong competition. The schedule will provide immediate tests, but the talent and hunger are there. Now, it’s about execution.
Fairfield fans can expect a focused, determined squad ready to compete. After a frustrating 2024, the Stags are determined to make 2025 their turning point—and this time, they plan to turn close games into victories.
Leave a Reply