The Tennessee Lady Vols are making a powerful statement this softball season, and the SEC coaches have taken notice. Three standout players have been named to the All-SEC First Team, a well-deserved honor that highlights their incredible contributions on the field.
Junior outfielder Alannah Leach has been a force at the plate, posting a .330 batting average while leading the team with 12 home runs—seven of which came during SEC play. She's set new career highs across nearly every offensive category, racking up 37 hits, 27 runs, and 23 RBIs in 53 games. With a .670 slugging percentage and a .419 on-base percentage, Leach has consistently delivered when it matters most.
In the circle, Sage Mardjetko has been nearly untouchable. The pitcher boasts a league-leading 0.99 ERA across 25 games, striking out a career-high 147 batters in 105.2 innings. Her dominance only intensified during SEC play, where she posted a 1.07 ERA—the best in the conference—along with a 6-1 record and 64 strikeouts in 59.0 innings. Fans will also remember her first career no-hitter against Southern Illinois on February 22, a performance that set the tone for her remarkable season.
Senior Karlyn Pickens continues to cement her legacy, earning All-SEC honors for the fourth time and her third First-Team selection. With a 1.52 ERA overall and a 1.79 ERA in conference play, Pickens has been a reliable anchor for the Lady Vols. She's appeared in 28 games, recording 157 strikeouts—84 of which came against SEC opponents. Her ability to limit hits is unmatched; she leads the nation in hits allowed per seven innings at just 3.22. Pickens also earned a spot on the SEC All-Defensive Team, showcasing her all-around excellence.
This trio of talent is a testament to the depth and determination of Tennessee softball. As the season heats up, these All-SEC honorees are proving they have what it takes to compete at the highest level.
