NASHVILLE – Tennessee State softball opens the 2026 season at home this weekend, welcoming Butler to Tiger Field for a 4 p.m. first pitch on Friday afternoon and a Saturday double-heading beginning at 1 p.m.

The Tigers enter the new campaign after finishing 23-22 overall and 13-13 in OVC play in 2025. TSU posted a 9-7 record at Tiger Field last season and looks to start the year strong in front of the home crowd.

Tennessee State returns a strong veteran core led by senior outfielder JaKeyla McDaniel and senior center fielder Jasmine Blackburn, who anchor the Tigers defensively and bring experience to the lineup. Senior infielder Kailyn Jean-Baptiste adds leadership on the infield, while Southern Miss transfer Amayiah Hall provides versatility across multiple positions.

Junior infielders Jace Jackson, Alexis Woods, and Mariyah Brown return after gaining valuable experience last season, helping power an offense that produced multiple double-digit scoring performances in 2025. The Tigers also add depth with newcomers Dani James, Courtney Richardson, and transfer Kayden Porter.

In the circle, TSU features a mix of returning arms and new additions. Sophomores Kristian Holder and Tianna Salcido give the Tigers two left-handed options, while Chelsi Ervin and freshman Miriam Gordon provide right-handed depth. Establishing consistency in the circle will be key as the Tigers look to set the tone early.

Butler (1-4) enters the matchup after opening its season in Cedar Falls, Iowa. The Bulldogs earned a win over Kansas City but faced high-powered offenses in early losses to Omaha, Northern Iowa, and Iowa State. Butler has shown offensive capability but will look for more consistency in the circle as it heads to Nashville.

Friday's contest marks the beginning of a new season under head coach Genee McRath, as the Tigers aim to build on last year's .500 conference finish and defend their home field to start 2026.

By the Numbers
23 – Wins by TSU in 2025.
13 – OVC victories last season.
9 – Home wins at Tiger Field in 2025.
4 – Returning pitchers on the 2026 roster.
1 – Season opener on Friday afternoon.

Know Before You Go
Who: Tennessee State vs. Butler
When: Friday – 4 p.m. | Saturday – 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.
Where: Tiger Field | Nashville, Tenn.
Admission: Free admission
Follow: @TSUTigersSB on X and Instagram