As the 2026 TSSAA softball postseason heats up, the Knoxville area is buzzing with standout performances from some of the state's most talented players. Now, it's your turn to have a say: vote for the TSSAA softball Player of the Year in the Knoxville area. This is a chance to celebrate the athletes who have dominated the diamond this season, from clutch hitting to dominant pitching.
The poll, which closes at noon on May 16, features nominees based on stats submitted by area high school coaches and compiled from MaxPreps. Whether you're a fan of power hitters, speedsters, or aces in the circle, there's a player to rally behind. Here's a look at the contenders:
Halle Bailey, Alcoa, Sr. — A senior leader, Bailey is crushing it at the plate with a .592 batting average. She's also a threat on the bases with 35 steals, plus 29 RBIs, seven doubles, seven triples, and two home runs.
Bella Brummett, Anderson County, So. — This sophomore has 35 hits and 33 RBIs, including 12 doubles and five home runs, while batting .407. She's also added a triple and a steal to her stat line.
Evangeline Dunn, Bearden, So. — Dunn is another sophomore making waves with 42 hits, 29 RBIs, six doubles, three home runs, and a steal, all while posting a stellar .427 batting average.
Emily Bogoski, CAK, So. — A true two-way star, Bogoski is 10-3 in the circle with a 2.58 ERA and 115 strikeouts over 84 innings. At the plate, she's hitting .508 with 30 hits, 26 RBIs, 12 steals, seven home runs, six doubles, and three triples.
Keira Bierdemann, Campbell County, Sr. — A senior workhorse, Bierdemann has a 3.98 ERA with an impressive 142 strikeouts through 107.1 innings pitched.
Ella Borbeck, Eagleton, So. — Borbeck has been a force on both sides of the ball. She's batting .481 with 55 RBIs, 20 doubles, three home runs, and three triples. On the mound, she's 14-5 with a dominant 0.918 ERA and 241 strikeouts.
Don't miss your chance to support these incredible athletes as they compete in the postseason. Cast your vote before the deadline and help crown the Knoxville area's top softball player of the year!