Monterey Pitcher Ella Myers Shines in UCSB Debut

Freshman makes memorable first collegiate at-bat with run-scoring single.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Ella Myers, a two-time Herald Female Athlete of the Year, made an impressive debut for the UC Santa Barbara softball team as a true freshman. Though signed primarily as a pitcher, Myers got the chance to hit and delivered a run-scoring single in her first collegiate at-bat.

Why it matters

Myers' performance highlights the versatility of the young player, who was recruited for her pitching skills but also showed her abilities as a hitter in her first game. This early success could bode well for Myers' collegiate career and the UCSB softball program.

The details

In her first collegiate game, Myers was given the opportunity to pitch and hit for UCSB. With the game on the line, Myers stepped up to the plate in a pinch-hitting role and delivered a 2-2 single to center field, driving in a run for the Gauchos.

  • On February 18, 2026, Myers made her collegiate debut for UCSB.

The players

Ella Myers

A two-time Herald Female Athlete of the Year, Myers was signed primarily as a pitcher for the UC Santa Barbara softball team but also showed her skills as a hitter in her first collegiate game.

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos

The softball team that Ella Myers plays for, where she made her impressive debut as both a pitcher and hitter.

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The takeaway

Ella Myers' standout debut for the UCSB softball team demonstrates her versatility as both a pitcher and hitter, suggesting a promising collegiate career ahead and a bright future for the Gauchos program.