RANKINGS
The stars of 2025-26 Deer Park Softball
BACK ON TRACK: The championship blueprint remains intact at No. 19 Deer Park
To put it in perspective, Deer Park has claimed its district title every year dating back to 2013 (excluding the COVID year), and last spring was no exception—though the competition proved tougher than in recent seasons. From there, the Deer’s hopes for a deep playoff run were dashed by a demanding opening-round series against Atascocita, closing the season at 20-10 overall.
Plenty of talent returns to the mix, propelled by recent Texas Tech signee Braelynn Jones. At her best when controlling the game, Jones will be central to the team’s push this season, as the second-team all-district standout steps into the role of Deer Park’s ace.
Deer Park Sr. RHP Braelynn Jones (Texas Tech signee)Farrah Sheeren (VYPE/Phlox Photography)
Trinity-bound Mariah Ramirez (Sr. OF) and Caitlyn Wade (Jr. OF/UT)—both first-team honorees last season—are expected to remain key contributors on both offense and defense. The same can be said for second-team picks Kayla Barras (Sr. OF/Louisiana-Monroe) and Journey Peterson (So. 3B).
Rounding out this senior-heavy roster are second baseman Reily Hernandez (Southwestern) and utility McCartney Pledger (Alvin JC).
Deer Park is poised to return to its winning ways, but the long-term goal will be a serious effort towards the ballclub’s first UIL championship since 2021.
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The stars of 2025-26 Clear Creek Softball
SCORE TO SETTLE: No. 20 Clear Creek emboldened to retrace historic Regional Finals run
Replacing District 24-6A MVP and current Arkansas Razorback Khamari Hall will be no small task. Still, there’s a strong case to be made that the Wildcats could be just as balanced this season. Clear Creek equips an extensive group of all-district performers, led by first-team selections Kierstyn Lambeth (Arizona State commit), infielder Samantha Tumbleson (UT–Arlington), and sophomore second baseman Emma Hope.
Clear Creek Jr. OF Kierstyn Lambeth (Arizona State commit)
UConn commit Sydney Detenbeck (Jr. OF) and Missouri–Kansas City pledge Aria Victorian (Jr. C) are also poised for breakout campaigns, as both look to build on honorable mention seasons alongside fellow junior Lilli Rodriguez, who is expected to make a similar impact in the months ahead.
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