BRENTWOOD, TENN. – With the new season approaching, Tennessee State softball returns a strong core of experience and production, highlighted by senior infielder Kailyn Jean-Baptiste, junior infielder Jace Jackson and returning All-OVC outfielder Hailey Hunt. The Tigers enter the year with momentum and continuity, bringing back the majority of last season's roster after losing just six players — including one who returns this year in a coaching role — while welcoming eight new student-athletes to the program.

Despite being picked to finish seventh in the Ohio Valley Conference preseason poll, TSU is positioned to exceed expectations with proven contributors across the lineup and added depth from its incoming class.

Kailyn Jean-Baptiste | Senior | Infielder | Palm Beach, Fla.

A steady presence in the lineup and in the field, Kailyn Jean-Baptiste enters her senior campaign as one of TSU's most reliable contributors. Jean-Baptiste started all 45 games last season, showcasing durability and consistency throughout the year.

At the plate, she posted a .245 batting average with 26 hits, including four doubles and two home runs, while driving in 16 runs. She added 18 walks and finished with a .340 on-base percentage, demonstrating a patient approach that helped set the table for the Tigers' offense. Defensively, Jean-Baptiste provided veteran leadership in the infield, anchoring a unit that leaned heavily on her experience.

As a senior, Jean-Baptiste brings more than just production — she brings poise. Her familiarity with high-pressure moments and commitment to team culture make her a key piece for TSU heading into the season.

Jace Jackson | Junior | Infielder | Locust Grove, Ga.

Coming off a breakout year, Jace Jackson established herself as one of the Tigers' most dangerous offensive weapons in 2025. Like Jean-Baptiste, Jackson started all 45 games, leading TSU with a .336 batting average and .850 OPS.

Jackson tallied 48 hits in 143 at-bats, scoring 34 runs while driving in 30 more. Her power showed up with eight doubles, one triple and three home runs, accounting for 67 total bases and a .469 slugging percentage. She also added eight stolen bases, bringing speed and versatility to the Tigers' lineup.

Jackson's ability to impact games in multiple ways — hitting for average, producing runs and creating pressure on the basepaths — makes her a constant threat and a player opponents must game-plan for.

Hailey Hunt | Sophomore | Outfielder | Clermont, Fla.

Returning All-OVC selection Hailey Hunt looks to build on an impressive freshman campaign that earned conference recognition. Hunt appeared in 45 games with 43 starts, batting .309 with 38 hits, including four doubles and two triples.

Hunt posted a .390 on-base percentage and scored 13 runs while driving in 14, proving to be a consistent presence near the top of the order. Her athleticism in the outfield and disciplined approach at the plate quickly made her a cornerstone for the Tigers, and she enters her sophomore season poised for an even bigger role.

With a year of collegiate experience under her belt, Hunt's development will be critical as TSU looks to elevate its offensive production and defensive range.

With Jean-Baptiste's senior leadership, Jackson's offensive firepower and Hunt's all-conference talent, Tennessee State returns a strong foundation heading into the new season. Together, the trio represents the balance of experience and youth that defines this year's Tigers squad.

Coupled with roster continuity, a former player returning to the program in a coaching role, and eight newcomers adding depth and competition, the Tigers are primed to challenge preseason projections and make noise in OVC play.