Softball Makes History With First Winning Season in Over a Decade
The Victor Valley College softball program put together a historic 2025–26 campaign, finishing with a 20–17 overall record and securing the program's first winning season in more than a decade. The season marked a major turning point for the Rams, showcasing growth, balance, and one of the most productive offensive years in program history.
Victor Valley posted a strong 13–7 record at home and battled consistently throughout conference play, setting a new standard for the program and establishing momentum for the future. From the opening game to the final out, the Rams combined timely hitting, depth across the lineup, and resilience in key moments to reach the 20‑win mark.
Record‑Breaking Performances
The 2025–26 season saw multiple Victor Valley student‑athletes etch their names into the record books.
Makyla Ortiz delivered one of the most dominant offensive seasons in VVC history, breaking the single‑season batting average record (.577), single‑season RBI record (46), and single‑season on‑base percentage record (.626). Ortiz finished the year with 45 hits, 13 doubles, four home runs, and a .923 slugging percentage, while also contributing heavily in the circle.
Veteran leader Hope Merrill capped off her Ram career by becoming the all‑time program leader in career hits and career doubles. Merrill hit .412 on the season with 49 hits, 14 doubles, and 33 RBIs, establishing herself as one of the most consistent offensive performers in program history.
Another milestone came from Haylee Stanislawski, who broke the all‑time RBIs record at Victor Valley College. Stanislawski finished the season with 29 RBIs while providing steady production in the middle of the lineup and leadership both on and off the field.
Jade Whitman also delivered a standout year, breaking the single‑season doubles record with 18 doubles while batting .477 with 52 hits, 39 runs scored, and 34 RBIs. Her ability to generate extra‑base hits consistently energized the Rams' offense.
Contributions Across the Lineup
While the season featured historic individual performances, Victor Valley's success was truly fueled by contributions throughout the entire roster.
Alany Esparza provided steady production in the middle of the order, batting .338 with 20 RBIs and delivering reliable defense across the field. Jadielyn Rodriguez added speed and versatility, scoring 27 runs, driving in 12, and applying constant pressure on opponents.
At the top of the lineup, Julianna Chavez served as a spark, scoring 28 runs while drawing walks and setting the table for the heart of the order. Samantha Minghelli brought patience and timely hitting, consistently reaching base and contributing in key moments.
Depth played a critical role in the Rams' historic run. Chloe Bledsoe added extra‑base power with six doubles and steady defense, while Clarissa Martinez and Rylie Hunsaker provided valuable at‑bats and lineup flexibility throughout the season.
Defensively, Lola Sartoresi, Brooke Miller, and Chloe Evans helped anchor multiple positions across the diamond, allowing the Rams to maintain stability despite the grind of a full season.
Strength in the Circle
In the circle, Victor Valley relied on a collective effort to reach 20 wins. Alongside Makyla Ortiz, Samantha Conan played a pivotal role, finishing the season with 11 wins while also contributing offensively with 14 RBIs.
The pitching staff worked together to keep the Rams competitive in tight conference matchups and provide balance to the team's offensive firepower.
Conference Honors
Victor Valley's historic season was reflected in postseason recognition, with six Rams earning All‑Conference honors:
First Team IEAC All‑Conference
Second Team IEAC All‑Conference
Honorable Mention
A Program‑Defining Season
Beyond the records and awards, the 2025–26 season represented a major milestone for Victor Valley College softball. The Rams' first winning season in over ten years reflects the commitment of the student‑athletes, coaching staff, and the belief built throughout the program.
With records shattered, depth emerging, and a new standard established, the Rams have laid the foundation for continued success — and the future of VVC softball has never looked brighter.