The Arizona softball team once again has loaded up on preseason honors.
Multiple Wildcats have found their way onto D1Softball’s and Softball America’s lists.
Outfielders Dakota Kennedy and Regan Shockey are 2 for 2, landing on both Softball America’s and D1 Softball’s Preseason Top 100 lists. Kennedy, a junior who won a gold glove last season, was No. 34 for SA and No. 17 for D1, while Shockey, a sophomore, was No. 47 for SA and No. 59 for D1.
Arizona outfielder Dakota Kennedy jumps and misses a home run hit by Oklahoma State infielder Tallen Edwards during the first inning of the NCAA Softball Tournament Super Regional matchup between OSU and the Wildcats at Cowgirl Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma, on May 25, 2024.
Devyn Netz also landed on D1’s list at No. 69. Netz, who does a little bit of everything — pitches, bats and plays first base — is returning for her senior season after sitting out with an injury last season.
Three Wildcats made both freshmen watch lists — pitcher Sarah Wright, catcher Emma Kavanagh and infielder/third baseman Jenna Shiffen.
Arizona was ranked No. 14 in Softball America’s preseason poll.
Arizona opens the season on Feb. 6 at home with the Candrea Classic where it will play against former Pac-12 opponent Washington, along with Michigan State, No. 11 Alabama and Western Michigan.
The Wildcats also face a number of top matchups with Texas (No. 2), UCLA (No. 5) and Stanford before heading to Big 12 play. In the Big 12, Oklahoma State is No. 4, Texas Tech is No. 9, Baylor, who Arizona doesn’t play, is No. 16 in SA’s preseason poll.
The Wildcats play the first three weeks at home before heading to the Judi Garman Classic in Fullerton, California., on Feb. 28. There will be even more opportunities to watch the Wildcats at home in March with the Big 12 opening series against UCF on March 7 followed by Utah on March 14 at Hillenbrand. Then, Arizona heads up to Phoenix to play GCU and ASU before heading on the first Big 12 away series against BYU on March 27.
