FSU Softball Retains Core Roster for 2027 After ACC Double
Head coach Lonni Alameda prioritises retention as Florida State looks to rebuild momentum after an early exit in the NCAA Tallahassee Regional.
Florida State University’s softball team concluded its 2026 campaign with a 52-10 record, securing both the Atlantic Coast Conference regular-season and tournament championships. The season ended in the Tallahassee Regional against the UCF Knights, marking the first time since 2022 that the Seminoles failed to advance to the Super Regional round. Despite the premature conclusion to the NCAA tournament, the programme has moved swiftly to assess its roster for the 2027 season, with head coach Lonni Alameda prioritising player retention.
Eighteen players currently on the roster retain eligibility for the upcoming year, providing a stable foundation for the team. The only two seniors on the roster, catcher Madi Frey and pitcher Makenna Reid, are out of eligibility. Additionally, pitcher Mimi Gooden, who did not play in a game during the 2026 season, is no longer listed on the roster. While the transfer portal remains a variable, Alameda has emphasised retaining existing talent, making it unlikely that key contributors will depart.
The pitching staff returns significant production, led by ACC Pitcher of the Year Jazzy Francik. Francik posted a 24-3 record with a 1.86 ERA over 154 innings, throwing three no-hitters and striking out 119 batters. Two-way star Ashtyn Danley also returns, having made 15 starts with a 13-1 record and a 2.09 ERA. The rotation is further bolstered by Bella Dimitrijevic and Marlee Gaskell, both of whom have eligibility remaining and contributed significantly during the season.
Offensively, the Seminoles return ACC Player of the Year Isa Torres, who set school records for batting average, slugging percentage, and on-base percentage. Torres hit .530 with 16 home runs and 56 runs batted in, earning ACC Defender of the Year honours. She is joined by infielders Hayley Griggs, Angelee Bueno, Marin Heller, Makenna Sturgis, and Jaysoni Beachum. Beachum started all 62 games at third base, hitting .406 with 69 RBI, while Heller and Sturgis provided strong performances at second base.
The catching and outfield units also see continuity with Anna Hinde, Bella Ruggiero, Shelby McKenzie, Kennedy Harp, and Ashtyn Danley. Hinde emerged as the top catcher, hitting .344 with nine home runs and 43 RBI without committing an error. Ruggiero and McKenzie provided depth in right field, while Harp and Sturgis anchored centre field. Danley, who also played left field, hit .353 with 12 home runs and 57 RBI, demonstrating her versatility across the diamond.
The retention of this core group positions Florida State to remain competitive in the ACC. With 18 players eligible to return, the Seminoles have minimised the impact of their early NCAA tournament exit. The focus now shifts to integrating these returners into the 2027 season, building on the success of the 2026 championship campaign.
