A year after one of the most electric seasons in Gamecock Softball program history, one that ended just shy of a Women's College World Series berth, the South Carolina program is doubling down on the blueprint that transformed the team into a national threat.
The Gamecocks enter 2026 ranked No. 16 nationally in the Softball America preseason poll, reflecting respect for their returning talent and last year’s breakout campaign. Analyst projections have South Carolina in the No. 14–17 range, signaling that expectations are high heading into the new season.
Built for the Next Step After Historic Run
In 2025, Carolina shocked the softball world. The Gamecocks were picked by many to finish near the bottom of the brutal SEC, but instead the Gamecocks broke through with a Top‑15 national finish, grabbed the No. 8 overall NCAA seed, and hosted their first Super Regional in program history. Only to come within a hair of an Oklahoma City ticket.
Now, as the Gamecocks look towards the upcoming season, the narrative is about sustained excellence. And the early preseason accolades suggest this team is poised for even bigger things.
Recognition at the Highest Level
On Monday, Softball America dropped its Top 100 Preseason Players of the Year list, and three Gamecocks landed spots, signaling national respect for Carolina’s returning core:
Arianna Rodi at No. 47
A relentless offensive force and defensive standout, Rodi’s junior season was a statistical masterpiece. She set program records with 17 home runs and 49 walks, posted a .333 average with a 1.201 OPS, and became the first Gamecock ever to win a Rawlings Gold Glove at first base.
Karley Shelton at No. 68
Shelton was the engine of the lineup, leading South Carolina in hits, runs, and doubles while starting all 61 games at second base. Her .343 average and knack for clutch production make her a table‑setter this season.
Lexi Winters at No. 89
A steady and savvy presence behind the plate, Winters drove in 53 runs, placing her fifth all‑time in program history, while pacing the club in slugging behind Rodi and throwing out eight would‑be baserunners.
The Gamecocks' presence on the Top 100 proves that this team is full of difference-makers who have showed up under pressure. They will now enter the 2026 season with national expectations.
Fresh Talent Poised to Make Waves
The preseason isn’t just about the returners. South Carolina also landed two freshmen on Softball America’s Freshman Watch List, adding high ceilings to a roster already strong on experience:
Ansley Bennett, Utility
A two‑time South Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year, Bennett arrives with a rare two‑way skill set. Her dominant high school pitching included a 30‑0 season in 2024 with a 0.16 ERA.
Kai Byars, Outfield
A consensus top‑recruit in Virginia and three‑time all‑state standout, Byars adds speed, defense, and depth to an already athletic outfield mix.
Looking Ahead
A returning squad of All‑Americans and conference standouts. Plus, Ashley Chastain Woodard, the coach who has catalyzed the program’s rise. Add in impact rookies who could alter lineups and innings. That’s a formula for sustained competitiveness in a loaded SEC.
South Carolina has moved from being an underdog with a story to a legitimate contender with national recognition. Not to mention individual stars who belong on the mid‑season highlight reels. If the Gamecocks can stay healthy and repeat last year’s poise, particularly in high‑leverage postseason moments, expect another deep NCAA run. The Gamecocks are not done surprising anyone.