After an electrifying start to the 2025 season, No. 2 Oklahoma Softball (2-0) is set for another doubleheader on Friday against Cal State Fullerton and California Baptist. Both teams enter the season with postseason aspirations, and the Sooners will need to be sharp to maintain their early momentum. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from each opponent.
Game 1: Oklahoma vs. California Baptist
📅 Date: Friday, Feb. 7
⏰ Time: 3:00 p.m. CT
📍 Location: Fullerton, CA
📺 Streaming: SoonerSports.com
Scouting the Lancers
California Baptist enters the 2025 season eager to make a statement, and their grueling early schedule is proof of their ambitions. The Lancers are no strangers to elite competition, having faced teams like Maryland, Duke, Oklahoma State, and Texas in past opening weekends. But taking on the four-time reigning national champion Sooners is the ultimate early-season test.
Under Head Coach Mike Smith, CBU will look to solidify a lineup that lost several key contributors from last season. However, the team returns some of its top bats, including:
- Priscilla Estrada (SS) & Sydney Soto (CF) – Two of the most productive hitters in the Division I era for CBU, both were All-WAC Defensive Team selections and provide veteran leadership.
- Kalena Burns (1B/DH) – The Lancers’ single-season home run record holder will be a power threat in the lineup.
- Kate Penberthy (3B) – One of just two freshmen last year to be named All-WAC, Penberthy is a rising star to watch.
The Pitching Picture
The biggest question mark for California Baptist is its revamped pitching staff. Only Morgan McConnell returns from last season’s rotation, and she will likely be relied on as the team’s ace. Newcomers Lili Arana (R-Fr.), Annika Hollingsworth (Fr.), and transfer Sara Frederickson will also be in the mix, but with so much uncertainty, facing Oklahoma’s high-powered offense is a daunting challenge.
Keys for Oklahoma
- Jump on the new pitching staff early – With an inexperienced group of arms, the Sooners’ ability to work counts and capitalize on mistakes could lead to a big day at the plate.
- Neutralize CBU’s top bats – Estrada, Soto, and Burns are the heart of the lineup. Keeping them in check will limit the Lancers’ ability to generate offense.
Game 2: Oklahoma vs. Cal State Fullerton
📅 Date: Friday, Feb. 7
⏰ Time: 8:00 p.m. CT
📍 Location: Fullerton, CA
📺 Streaming: ESPN+
Scouting the Titans
Cal State Fullerton is a perennial contender in the Big West, and last season, the Titans claimed their sixth conference title in the last eight years. Their 32nd NCAA Tournament appearance in 2024 saw them knock off Mississippi State and Stanford before falling in the regional final.
Now led by new head coach Gina Oaks Garcia, the Titans return a deep and talented roster, featuring 14 returners and eight newcomers.
Players to Watch
- Sarah Perez (SS) – A Big West Preseason Team selection, Perez brings speed and defense, having stolen nine bases and turned six double plays last season.
- Kate Verhoef (RF) – An NFCA Gold Glove recipient, Verhoef posted a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage and was second on the team in stolen bases (14).
- Leanna Garcia (P) – Part of a strong Titans pitching staff, Garcia was clutch in the postseason, closing out a 7-0 shutout of Mississippi State.
The Titans’ Strengths
- Elite Pitching – Fullerton’s staff earned multiple All-Big West honors in 2024, including Pitcher of the Year. They consistently keep opposing offenses in check.
- Disciplined Defense – The Titans have one of the best defensive outfields in the Big West.
Keys for Oklahoma
- Patience at the plate – The Titans’ pitching staff thrives on forcing weak contact, so the Sooners will need disciplined at-bats to create scoring opportunities.
- Pressure on the basepaths – Oklahoma’s aggressive baserunning could exploit any defensive lapses and help manufacture runs against Fullerton’s stingy pitching staff.
Final Thoughts
The Friday doubleheader presents two unique challenges for the Sooners. California Baptist is still finding its identity, but has power potential and a scrappy lineup that can’t be overlooked. Meanwhile, Cal State Fullerton is a battle-tested team with postseason experience, making them a serious test early in the season.
With Ella Parker, Kasidi Pickering, and Isabela Emerling already making an impact, Oklahoma will look to stay undefeated and continue its quest for a fifth straight national title.
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