South Florida enters the 2026 season with a battery built on depth and experience. The Bulls rely on strong pitching and catching to shape their competitive identity. Ken Eriksen believes the team’s success begins with these two positions.
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Pitching Staff Shows Depth and Versatility
USF features one of its deepest pitching groups in recent seasons. Belle Sardja returns with leadership and precise command in the circle. She forces hitters into weak contact with varied speeds and control.
Anne Long continues her rise as a steady and efficient arm. Her elite drop ball remains one of the best at USF. She works quickly through lineups with confidence and poise.
Transfer pitcher Carley Ernst adds valuable experience after a demanding freshman year. Her rapid fall development impressed the coaching staff. Hannah Marien also made major strides with improved movement and confidence.
Sophomore McKenna Schroding provides another reliable option after a strong fall. Freshman Amelia Jacob brings upside and long-term potential. The staff’s balance allows USF to use multiple pitchers in varied roles. Eriksen believes the group is deep enough to use six pitchers in one game.
Catchers Provide Leadership and Stability
USF’s catching group offers experience, depth, and strong defensive leadership. Transfer Kiley Strott steps into a key role with poise and game-management skill. She fills a major need while Camille Ortiz-Martinez trains internationally.
Strott also contributes offensively with a versatile approach at the plate. Her consistency strengthens the lineup in multiple ways. Dharma Murray returns with growing offensive confidence and defensive experience.
Freshman Abbie DeWaters brings a strong arm and immediate defensive impact. She helps limit running games with her quick release and accuracy. Kacey Wilkes adds versatility behind the plate and in the field. Her flexibility gives USF added depth throughout the season.
Building a Cohesive Battery
The connection between pitchers and catchers remains central to USF’s success. The battery sets tempo, manages adjustments, and handles adversity together. Trust between both positions fuels confidence and consistent performance. Eriksen believes this chemistry leads to the team’s best softball.
Outlook for the 2026 Season
South Florida enters the season prepared to compete in the American and beyond. The Bulls rely on a battery that blends experience, depth, and development. Their pitching and catching strength will shape the team’s identity in 2026. USF aims for another postseason run built on its foundation in the circle.
