Texas A&M’s Mya Perez earns USA Softball Top 25 finalist honor

Offense across college softball has exploded this season. More than 30 players are hitting over .450, and both Oklahoma and UCLA have already shattered the single‑season home‑team home run record with a full week left in the regular season.

Even in a year defined by gaudy numbers, Texas A&M junior Mya Perez continues to stand out not just for her production, but for how opponents are being forced to pitch her.

Ask head coach Trisha Ford, and she’ll tell you the same thing every time: Perez is the purest hitter she has ever coached. That reputation has made her one of the most respected and feared hitters in the country. Despite limited opportunities at the plate, Perez still ranks among the nation’s top 25 hitters.

During the South Carolina series alone, she was hit by a pitch three times and walked twice, pushing her season walk total to 46. It’s a trend that can test any hitter’s patience, but Perez has embraced the reality of being pitched around.

"It can be frustrating at times, especially when I’m getting pitched around or not seeing a lot to hit. But I take it as a sign of respect more than anything. My job is to stay disciplined, not chase and trust my approach. I trust the girls on the right and left of me and passing the bat is always my goal. I just stay patient, stick to my plan, and be ready for the pitch I do get to hit."

Even with fewer swings than most elite hitters, Perez’s numbers remain staggering and firmly in All‑SEC territory:

• Batting Average: .455
• Slugging Percentage: .951
• On‑Base Percentage: .621
• Hits: 56
• RBI: 50
• Home Runs: 17

That production has placed her squarely in the national spotlight. Earlier this week, USA Softball named Perez a Top 25 Finalist for National Player of the Year, one of the sport’s most selective honors given the depth of talent across Division I.

Perez is grateful - but not distracted.