The Ottawa softball team used a solid pitching performance from sophomore Addie Russell and a bases loaded walk in the sixth to slip past Joliet Catholic 2-1 on Saturday at King Field.

In an area rich with softball talent, here are just five of the players The Times Sports staff will be keeping a close eye on in 2025.

Here's a team-by-team season preview for softball teams across The Times coverage area, including Seneca, Fieldcrest, Sandwich, Serena, Earlville, Newark and Somonauk/Leland.