Analyzing the 2026 Oklahoma Sooners Softball Roster

The Oklahoma Sooners softball team, under the guidance of head coach Patty Gasso, has consistently been a powerhouse in collegiate softball. Despite the end of their unprecedented four consecutive national championships, the Sooners are poised to remain at the pinnacle of the sport in 2026. With a blend of returning talent and an influx of elite recruits, the 2026 roster promises to be both dynamic and formidable

Pitching has been a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s success, and the 2026 season is no exception. The Sooners return experienced arms and welcome a trio of highly touted freshmen.

• Kiersten Deal: As a senior, Deal is expected to anchor the pitching staff. Her experience and composure in high-pressure situations make her a reliable ace.
• Paytn Monticelli: Returning for her senior season, Monticelli brings a wealth of experience and a competitive edge to the circle.
• Audrey Lowry: A promising sophomore, Lowry showed flashes of brilliance in her freshman year and is anticipated to take on a more prominent role in 2026.
• Keegan Baker: The Edmond Memorial product is ranked as the No. 18 overall prospect in the 2026 class and the No. 9 pitcher. Her commitment adds depth to the pitching staff.
• Malaya Majam-Finch: A top-25 national recruit and top-10 pitching prospect, Majam-Finch’s addition bolsters the Sooners’ pitching depth
• Ella Kate Smith: Ranked as the No. 2 overall recruit in the 2026 class, Smith is expected to make an immediate impact on the mound.

With this depth, the Sooners’ pitching staff is poised to be one of the most formidable in the nation.

The infield sees a mix of seasoned players and incoming talent, ensuring both stability and dynamism.

• Isabela Emerling (Catcher): A transfer from North Carolina, Emerling brings experience and leadership behind the plate.(
• Ailana Agbayani (Second Base): A transfer from BYU, Agbayani offers elite fielding range and a contact bat, making her an immediate contributor.
• Nelly McEnroe-Marinas (Shortstop): A redshirt sophomore, McEnroe-Marinas is expected to play a pivotal role in the infield, bringing energy and focus.
• Ki’ele Ho-Ching (Infielder): Ranked as the No. 3 player nationally by On3, Ho-Ching’s addition strengthens the infield’s depth. (
• Jerrell ‘Ori’ Mailo (Infielder): A power hitter from Hawaii, Mailo is the No. 40 ranked player in the country and the No. 1 recruit in Hawaii.

This combination of experience and talent provides the Sooners with a versatile and robust infield.

The outfield is set to be one of the Sooners’ most dynamic units, featuring both returning players and new additions.

• Kasidi Pickering: A junior, Pickering is known for her power and defensive prowess in the outfieldMaya Bland: A junior, Bland offers speed and agility, making her a key asset in the outfield
• Ella Parker: A sophomore, Parker brings a strong bat and solid defensive skills to the outfield.
• Kai Minor (Outfielder): A top-10 player in the 2025 class, Minor’s speed and arm strength make her a valuable addition.
• Payton Westra (Outfielder): A top-50 national recruit, Westra’s addition adds depth and competition to the outfield.

With this blend of speed, power, and versatility, the outfield is poised to be a strength for the Sooners in 2026.

The DP position is expected to be filled by a player who can provide significant power in the lineup. While specific players are yet to be determined, the incoming recruits, such as Mailo and Westra, could be candidates to fill this role, offering both power and depth to the lineup.

Under the leadership of head coach Patty Gasso, the Sooners have maintained a culture of excellence. Associate head coach and pitching coach Jennifer Rocha continues to develop the pitching staff, ensuring they remain among the nation’s elite. The coaching staff’s ability to integrate new talent while maintaining the program’s high standards will be crucial to the team’s success in 2026

The 2026 Oklahoma Sooners softball team is poised to be a formidable force in collegiate softball. With a deep and talented pitching staff, a versatile and dynamic infield and outfield, and a coaching staff committed to excellence, the Sooners are well-positioned to contend for national championships. The blend of returning experience and incoming talent provides a strong foundation for sustained success.

As the season progresses, the development of the freshmen and the integration of transfers will be key factors in determining the team’s performance. If the Sooners can harness the potential of their new additions while maintaining the high standards set by previous teams, the 2026 season could mark the beginning of a new era of dominance in Oklahoma softball.

Note: The information provided is based on available data as of June 2025. Player statuses and team compositions are subject to change as the season approaches.