Arizona Softball Picks Up Top 15 Win in 2-0 Day at DeMarini Invitational

Grace Jenkins' late home run lifts No. 15 Wildcats over No. 12 Stanford, Arizona also routs Santa Clara

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The No. 15 Arizona Wildcats softball team had a successful day at the DeMarini Invitational, picking up a 4-1 win over No. 12 Stanford and an 11-1 victory against Santa Clara. Grace Jenkins' sixth-inning home run proved to be the difference against Stanford, while the Wildcats' sophomores led the charge in the rout of Santa Clara.

Why it matters

The wins over top-15 opponents Stanford and Santa Clara are an important early-season boost for the Wildcats, who are looking to build on their success from last year and establish themselves as one of the top teams in the country. The performance also showcases the depth and talent of the Arizona roster, with contributions coming from both veteran and young players.

The details

Against Stanford, Arizona starter Rylie Holder pitched 6 strong innings, allowing just 1 run on 6 hits. The game was tied 1-1 until the 6th inning, when Jenkins' 3-run homer gave the Wildcats a lead they would not relinquish. In the later game against Santa Clara, sophomore infielders Carlie Trice and Jenna Sniffen combined for 7 RBIs to power an 11-1 rout. Pitcher Sarah Wright earned the save with 3 innings of 2-hit ball.

  • The Arizona Wildcats faced No. 12 Stanford on Saturday, February 22, 2026.
  • The Arizona Wildcats played Santa Clara later on Saturday, February 22, 2026.

The players

Rylie Holder

Arizona starting pitcher who earned the win against Stanford, allowing 1 run over 6 innings.

Grace Jenkins

Arizona sophomore who hit a 3-run home run in the 6th inning to give the Wildcats the lead against Stanford.

Carlie Trice

Arizona sophomore infielder who had 3 RBIs in the rout of Santa Clara.

Jenna Sniffen

Arizona sophomore infielder who led the team with 4 RBIs against Santa Clara.

Sarah Wright

Arizona sophomore pitcher who earned the save with 3 innings of 2-hit ball against Santa Clara.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Wildcats will play Texas again at 11 a.m. MST on Sunday, February 23rd. While the game will not be streamed, Texas will have a radio broadcast available.

The takeaway

Arizona's impressive wins over top-15 opponents Stanford and Santa Clara demonstrate the Wildcats' potential to be a force in college softball this season. The team's depth and balance, with contributions from both veterans and young players, make them a formidable opponent for any opponent.