Texas Softball Star Injured After Hit-by-Pitch Incident

Reese Atwood left the game against Arizona with a bloody injury after being struck in the face by a pitch.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 9:40pm

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In a matchup between the No. 3 Texas Longhorns and No. 16 Arizona Wildcats softball teams at the DeMarini Invitational in Stanford, California, Texas catcher Reese Atwood was hit in the face by a pitch from Arizona starter Jalen Adams in the top of the third inning. Atwood immediately left the game bloodied, with Taylor Anderson inserted as a pinch runner and Katie Stewart moving from first base to behind the plate.

Why it matters

Injuries to star players can significantly impact a team's performance and chances of success, especially in high-profile matchups between top-ranked programs. This incident raises concerns about player safety and the risks inherent in softball, a sport where pitches traveling at high speeds pose a constant threat to batters.

The details

According to reports, the game between the Longhorns and Wildcats was not available via live stream, but was being broadcast on Texas radio. Fans and observers on social media expressed concern for Atwood's well-being and praised the depth of the Texas roster, which allowed the team to quickly adjust its lineup in response to the injury.

  • The incident occurred in the top of the third inning of the game on Friday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Reese Atwood

The starting catcher for the Texas Longhorns softball team, who was injured after being hit in the face by a pitch.

Jalen Adams

The starting pitcher for the Arizona Wildcats softball team, who threw the pitch that struck Atwood.

Taylor Anderson

The player who was inserted as a pinch runner for the injured Atwood.

Katie Stewart

The Texas player who moved from first base to behind the plate after Atwood's injury.

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What they’re saying

“Reese Atwood left the game after being hit by the pitch. I knew they ran for her, but live stats didn't tell me anything else. Finally got the TX radio to work, though.”

— Kim Doss

“Hope Reese Atwood is ok after getting a pitch to the head. Thankful for the good depth Texas has for cases like this.”

— Seth-CodyH93

What’s next

The Texas coaching staff will likely provide an update on Atwood's condition and status for future games in the coming days.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the inherent risks and dangers that softball players face, particularly when it comes to being struck by high-velocity pitches. It also highlights the importance of having a deep and versatile roster to withstand the loss of a key player due to injury.