No position in softball carries more responsibility than catcher.
They call games, guide pitchers, organize the defense, control the running game, and handle the ball on nearly every pitch. Outside of the pitcher, no player touches it more. The best ones do all of that while still producing in the lineup, making them one of the most valuable — and most demanding — positions on the field.
Across Northeast Ohio, this year’s group includes proven anchors, steady contributors, emerging names, and intriguing x-factors who could shape the season.
Many of these players appeared among the Ohio Varsity 2026 Softball Players to Watch.
Franchise Cornerstones
These are the catchers everything revolves around — the players who anchor their teams on both sides of the ball.
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Kathryn Bouffard — Mentor Cardinals
A four-year starter behind the plate, Bouffard hit .316 with 9 RBI last season while anchoring the defense.
Maya Rowan — NDCL Lions
Rowan hit .319 with 2 home runs and 26 RBI while catching 124 innings and posting a .987 fielding percentage.
Maddy Ferrari — North Rangers
Ferrari hit .397 with 10 doubles and 3 home runs, earning First Team All-WRC honors.
Giada Presot — Cuyahoga Heights Red Wolves
A Second Team All-District selection who anchors the defense behind the plate.
Peyton Gambatese — West Geauga Wolverines
Returns as the primary catcher and a key piece of the Wolverines’ lineup.
Natalie Ianetta — Edgewood Warriors
A central piece for Edgewood, expected to impact the game on both sides.
Ally Negin — Madison Blue Streaks
A Second Team All-District selection who hit .480 while providing strong defense.
Lilly Kamenash — Rootstown Rovers
A First Team All-District selection and key contributor behind the plate.
Everyday Difference-Makers
Reliable players who consistently impact games and provide stability behind the plate.
Gia Sharaba — Chardon Hilltoppers
Anchors the position and is a key part of Chardon’s lineup.
Jenna Heil — South Rebels
A returning catcher who provides experience and consistency.
Emma Brainard — Perry Pirates
A steady presence behind the plate as part of Perry’s core.
Madi Gambatesa — Kenston Bombers
Hit .324 with a .425 on-base percentage while earning All-WRC honorable mention and All-Northeast Ohio District honorable mention honors.
Rylee DeMattia — Jefferson Falcons
A key contributor and reliable option behind the plate.
Emma Wilhelm — Riverside Beavers
Hit .393 with 31 runs and 30 RBI while earning First Team All-Lake County honors. Primarily plays first base for the reigning state champions, but also is a capable catcher.
High-Upside Breakouts
Players stepping into larger roles with the potential to make a major jump this season.
Addelyn Sheppard — Geneva Eagles
Takes over a key role behind the plate with the opportunity to emerge.
Abby Sulyok — Wickliffe Blue Devils
Steps into a larger role and increased responsibility.
Camille Corlette — Riverside Beavers
Shares duties behind the plate and adds depth to the lineup.
Peyton Dreiling — Gilmour Lancers
Steps into a varsity role behind the plate while also contributing as a pitcher.
X-Factors
Players who could quickly change the conversation with expanded roles or breakout seasons.
Mattie Spaller — Beachwood Bison
Steps into a role with the opportunity to make an impact behind the plate.
Delaney Gumm — Berkshire Badgers
Provides depth and potential as part of the lineup.
Josie Burich — Kirtland Hornets
An emerging contributor behind the plate.
Sophia Radolovic — Gilmour Lancers
Hit .371 with 7 doubles and adds offensive upside while seeing time at catcher.
Jocelyn Johnson — Crestwood Red Devils
Steps into varsity action early, splitting time behind the plate.
Jillian Hayes — Crestwood Red Devils
Part of Crestwood’s young catching group with immediate opportunity.
Final Thought
Pitching and defense may win games, but both run through the catcher.
This year’s group across Northeast Ohio highlights just how deep and important that position has become, with proven leaders and emerging players ready to take control of the game all season long.
Who are the best catchers in the area? Let us know in the comments below.
More Softball Coverage from OhioVarsity.com
- 2026 Northeast Ohio Softball Players to Watch
- 2026 CVC Softball Preview
- 2026 WRC Softball Preview
- 2026 CVC Freshmen to Watch
- 2026 WRC Freshmen to Watch
- Softball News
