The 2026 NDSU Softball Roster Revealed: 7 Key Players Set To Lead The Bison's Summit League Title Hunt
The North Dakota State Bison Softball program is poised for a significant resurgence in the 2026 season, officially kicking off one of the most anticipated campaigns in recent memory. As of December 21, 2025, the official roster reveals a compelling mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, all focused on improving upon the team's 19-31 overall record from the previous year and challenging for the Summit League crown.
The 2026 season marks a pivotal year for the Bison, with Head Coach Darren Mueller returning for his 25th season at the helm. With a fresh recruiting class bolstering the ranks and key statistical leaders from 2025 returning to Tharaldson Park, the foundation is set for a competitive run. Fans are eager to see how the mix of experience and new energy will translate into wins against perennial rivals.
The Complete 2026 North Dakota State Softball Roster and Player Profiles
The NDSU Bison roster for the 2026 season features a deep squad ready to compete in the Summit League. This list highlights the core of the team, including the top returning players who will be crucial to the team's success, alongside the new additions and experienced veterans.
- Head Coach: Darren Mueller (25th Season)
- Home Field: Tharaldson Park (Fargo, N.D.)
Key Returning Players (Leaders & Veterans)
These players are expected to be the statistical and emotional leaders for the Bison in 2026, bringing fresh, high-level experience from the 2025 season.
- 42 Chloe Woldruff: Outfielder | Senior | The team's leading hitter in 2025, Woldruff is the anchor of the offense. Her .318 batting average was critical, and her ability to get on base will be vital for the Bison's run production.
- 21 Macy Fry: Outfielder | Junior | Fry showed explosive potential in limited action during 2025, leading the team with two triples and posting a strong .333 average. She is a powerful, dynamic threat expected to take on a full-time starting role.
- 10 Star Cortez: Infielder | Junior | A versatile middle infielder and outfielder, Cortez is a defensive stalwart whose experience will be key in a competitive Summit League.
- 16 Anjolee Aguilar-Gonzalez: Infielder | Senior | A veteran presence in the infield, her leadership and defensive consistency are invaluable, particularly in tight conference games.
- 15 Emilee Buringa: Utility | Senior | The ultimate utility player, Buringa’s ability to play multiple positions provides the coaching staff with crucial flexibility throughout the season.
Pitching Staff (Pivotal Arms)
The success of the 2026 campaign will heavily rely on the performance of the pitching rotation, especially after a challenging 2025 season.
- 4 Ellie Peterson: Pitcher | Sophomore | After gaining valuable experience in her freshman year, Peterson is projected to be a primary starter. Her development is a major storyline for the team's championship aspirations.
- 5 Addie Bowers: Pitcher | Sophomore | Another young arm who will be asked to step up. Bowers’ velocity and control will be essential for managing the high-powered offenses in the Summit League.
- 27 Lainey Yockey: Pitcher | Senior | The veteran of the staff, Yockey’s experience in high-pressure situations will be critical for closing out games and mentoring the younger pitchers.
New Faces and Depth (Freshman & Transfers)
The 2026 roster is significantly enhanced by new recruits and transfers, injecting fresh talent and competition into the lineup.
- 3 Haylie Hedrington: Outfielder | Freshman | One of the top signees, Hedrington is expected to challenge for immediate playing time in the outfield, bringing speed and a strong bat to the roster.
- Chloe Champas: Signee (2026 Recruiting Class) | The addition of Champas, announced during the signing period, highlights the program's commitment to building a strong future foundation.
- 6 Jessica Delatorre: Infielder | Freshman | A promising young infielder who adds depth and competition to the middle of the diamond.
- 17 Skylar Johnson: Catcher | Sophomore | Provides essential depth behind the plate and is a strong defensive asset.
- 20 Alayna Mark: Infielder | Junior | A solid contributor who will compete for time at the corner infield spots.
- 25 Reanna Peat: Outfielder | Junior | A reliable reserve outfielder who can provide quality at-bats and strong defense when called upon.
The 2026 Season Outlook: Can the Bison Challenge for the Summit League Title?
The North Dakota State Bison enter the 2026 season with a clear goal: return to the top of the Summit League standings. The 2025 season, which saw the team finish with a 19-31 overall record and a 6-12 mark in conference play, was a rebuilding year that provided invaluable experience for the current roster. That experience, particularly for the young pitching staff, will be the biggest asset moving forward.
The strength of the 2026 team lies in its returning offensive firepower. The presence of Chloe Woldruff and the anticipated breakout of Macy Fry provides a formidable one-two punch at the top of the lineup. Woldruff’s consistency (.318 AVG in 2025) ensures a steady presence, while Fry’s power and speed can change a game instantly. The team’s ability to manufacture runs will be key to overcoming the challenges posed by conference rivals like South Dakota State.
Defensively, the Bison play their home games at the state-of-the-art Tharaldson Park, a facility known for its excellent playing conditions. The veteran infield, anchored by players like Anjolee Aguilar-Gonzalez, is expected to provide solid support for the developing pitchers.
The Critical Pitching Factor
For NDSU to make a significant jump in the standings, the sophomore class of pitchers, including Ellie Peterson and Addie Bowers, must take the next step in their development. Head Coach Darren Mueller, who completed his 24th season in 2025, has a proven track record of developing pitching talent. His guidance will be essential in turning potential into performance, especially during the demanding conference schedule which begins on the road against defending champions Omaha.
Darren Mueller’s Enduring Legacy and Program Stability
Program stability is a major advantage for the North Dakota State Bison, largely due to the long tenure of Head Coach Darren Mueller. Having wrapped up his 24th season in 2025, Mueller's leadership provides a consistent culture that aids in both recruiting and player development. His long-standing success, including multiple Summit League championships and NCAA Tournament appearances, is a testament to the program's foundation.
Mueller's coaching philosophy emphasizes high-level defense, aggressive base running, and a cohesive team environment. This approach is designed to thrive in the Summit League, where every conference game is a battle. The 2026 NDSU Bison Softball schedule is rigorous, featuring both challenging non-conference matchups and the always-tough road trip through the Summit League, ensuring the team is tested throughout the season.
Recruiting and Future Outlook
The addition of new talent, such as Haylie Hedrington and the recently announced signee Chloe Champas, demonstrates the program's ability to attract top-tier recruits. This continuous injection of fresh talent is vital for maintaining competitiveness and building a sustainable championship-caliber program. The 2026 roster is not just built for this season; it is a clear statement about the future of NDSU Softball.
The overall outlook for the 2026 season is cautiously optimistic. With key offensive leaders back, a year of experience for the pitching staff, and the stability provided by Coach Mueller, the Bison have all the tools necessary to exceed expectations. Their performance in the early non-conference tournaments will be a strong indicator of their readiness to compete for the Summit League title and secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
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