The Oklahoma Sooners’ trio was chosen for the preseason All-American teams.

The Oklahoma Sooners’ Trio Chosen for Preseason All-American Teams

As the 2025 college softball season quickly approaches, the University of Oklahoma Sooners have already made waves in the softball world. Their dominance in the NCAA has been a hallmark of Patty Gasso’s program, and this year, three key players have earned a spot on the prestigious Preseason All-American teams. This honor is a testament to the talent, work ethic, and leadership these athletes bring to the team and the game as a whole. These players are not only expected to be instrumental in the Sooners’ pursuit of another national championship but also to showcase their individual skills on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

The three players chosen for this honor – Jordy Bahl, Tiare Jennings, and Grace Lyons – are integral to the team’s continued success. Each brings a unique set of skills to the field, contributing in different ways but all equally important to the Sooners’ overall success. Their selection to the Preseason All-American teams reflects their consistent performance, leadership qualities, and dominance in their respective positions. Let’s dive into each of these players and explore what makes them stand out and how they’ll contribute to Oklahoma’s hopes for a fifth straight national championship.

Jordy Bahl: The Ace of the Staff

Jordy Bahl, one of the premier pitchers in college softball, has cemented her place as one of the top players in the game. A rising star for the Oklahoma Sooners, Bahl’s impressive pitching skills and clutch performances in key moments make her an undeniable force in the circle. The sophomore right-hander from Nebraska had an outstanding freshman campaign, which led to her being named a First-Team All-American. Her ability to dominate opposing hitters with her fastball and devastating changeup earned her widespread recognition.

Bahl’s selection to the Preseason All-American team is a reflection of her status as one of the top pitchers in the nation. Last season, she finished with a remarkable 1.12 ERA, 22-1 record, and 211 strikeouts in 154 innings pitched. Her ability to consistently control the game with her pinpoint accuracy and ability to miss bats makes her one of the most feared pitchers in college softball. Whether it’s a big game in the postseason or an early-season matchup, Bahl has proven that she can deliver on the biggest stages.

Bahl’s arsenal includes a blazing fastball that can reach speeds of 70 mph and an off-speed pitch that keeps hitters off balance. Her rise ball has been particularly devastating, especially when paired with her elite control. But perhaps Bahl’s greatest attribute is her mental toughness. She thrives under pressure and has demonstrated the ability to come through in clutch situations, whether it’s getting a critical strikeout or inducing weak contact in high-leverage situations.

As the ace of the Sooners’ pitching staff, Bahl will play a pivotal role in leading Oklahoma’s efforts to secure another national title in 2025. With her remarkable skill set and work ethic, Bahl’s selection as a Preseason All-American comes as no surprise, and expectations for her to dominate throughout the season are high. Whether as a starter or in relief, Bahl’s presence in the circle will be a key factor in Oklahoma’s success this year.

Tiare Jennings: A Powerful Force at the Plate

While Bahl anchors the pitching staff, Tiare Jennings is one of the most dominant hitters in the country, and her inclusion on the Preseason All-American team is a testament to her offensive prowess. Jennings, a junior infielder, is a powerhouse both in terms of her offensive production and her leadership on the field. The California native has been a key contributor to Oklahoma’s offense, consistently ranking among the nation’s leaders in home runs, RBIs, and slugging percentage.

Jennings’ power at the plate is one of her standout qualities. She has the ability to hit for both average and power, making her one of the most feared hitters in the NCAA. Last season, she finished with 23 home runs, 77 RBIs, and a .359 batting average, while leading the Sooners’ offensive charge. Jennings’ ability to hit the ball hard and consistently find the gaps in the defense has made her a key cog in the Sooners’ lineup, and her 2024 season only helped cement her place as one of the top players in the nation.

What sets Jennings apart from other players is her mental approach to hitting. She has an uncanny ability to work the count, stay patient at the plate, and wait for her pitch. Her understanding of the strike zone and the mental aspect of hitting makes her one of the toughest players to get out. Jennings isn’t just a home run hitter – she’s an all-around offensive threat who can manufacture runs in a variety of ways. Her speed on the base paths allows her to extend singles into doubles and set the table for other hitters in the lineup.

Jennings’ leadership and experience are also key factors in her ability to perform at such a high level. As a team captain, she is not only a great player but also a motivator and a player who inspires others to raise their game. Her passion for the game and her commitment to winning is contagious, and it will be crucial for her to continue leading by example as the Sooners make their run for another title in 2025.

Grace Lyons: The Steady Anchor in the Infield

The shortstop position is one of the most critical roles on any softball team, and Grace Lyons has proven time and time again that she is one of the best in the business. Lyons, a senior infielder from Arizona, is a stalwart at shortstop, known for her defensive ability, leadership, and clutch bat. As one of the most consistent performers for the Sooners, Lyons’ selection to the Preseason All-American team comes as no surprise. Her combination of power, defensive prowess, and leadership make her a cornerstone of the Oklahoma program.

Defensively, Lyons has earned a reputation as one of the best shortstops in the country. Her quick reflexes, soft hands, and strong arm allow her to make highlight-reel plays on a regular basis. Whether it’s turning a double play, charging a slow roller, or ranging deep in the hole, Lyons has the ability to make any play look routine. Her defensive consistency has been a key factor in Oklahoma’s success over the past few seasons, and she will continue to anchor the infield in 2025.

On offense, Lyons has been a key contributor for the Sooners throughout her career. She has the ability to hit for both average and power, and she brings a consistent bat to the middle of the lineup. Last season, Lyons finished with 13 home runs, 55 RBIs, and a .350 batting average. Her ability to come through in key situations, whether it’s with runners in scoring position or in clutch moments late in games, has been a major asset for Oklahoma. Lyons is the type of player who rises to the occasion when it matters most, and her presence in the lineup gives the Sooners a reliable offensive threat.

As a senior, Lyons will be expected to not only continue her strong performance on the field but also to be a leader in the locker room. Her leadership qualities and experience make her an invaluable asset to the Sooners, and she will play a key role in guiding the team through the ups and downs of the season. Lyons’ ability to stay focused and perform at a high level in critical moments will be key to Oklahoma’s success in 2025.

What This Means for Oklahoma Softball

The selection of Jordy Bahl, Tiare Jennings, and Grace Lyons to the Preseason All-American teams is a testament to the strength of the Oklahoma softball program. With three players of this caliber, the Sooners are poised for another successful season, with high expectations and championship aspirations. These players are not just individually talented – they represent the heart and soul of the program, embodying the hard work, dedication, and team-first mentality that has made Oklahoma softball one of the most dominant forces in the NCAA.

With these three players leading the charge, Oklahoma enters the 2025 season with a championship-caliber roster. Bahl’s dominance in the circle, Jennings’ power at the plate, and Lyons’ all-around contributions make the Sooners one of the most complete teams in the country. As the season progresses, the trio will continue to set the tone for the rest of the team, pushing each other and their teammates to achieve greatness.

For Patty Gasso and the Oklahoma softball program, the selection of these three players to the Preseason All-American teams only reinforces the program’s reputation for excellence. With these players at the forefront, the Sooners are in an excellent position to make another deep run in the NCAA tournament, and they will be one of the teams to watch as they pursue another national championship in 2025.

As the season gets underway, all eyes will be on Bahl, Jennings, and Lyons as they aim to continue their dominance and help lead the Sooners to even more success. With their talent, leadership, and determination, the 2025 season promises to be another memorable one for Oklahoma softball.