Ana-Grace Garcia Named 2026 NJCAA DII Softball Pitcher of the Year
Charlotte, NC – During each new season, every team looks to their Ace to lead them to success on the field. A dominant leader on defense who will stop the opponent in their tracks to give her offense the best chance at victory. One Pearl River Community College Softball Standout embodies what it means to be an Ace while redefining the legacy of her program. Ana-Grace Garcia of Pearl River has been named the 2026 NJCAA Softball Division II Pitcher of the Year.
Garcia, a sophomore RHP from Baton Rouge, La., made her mark this season as she led the Wildcats to not only their first NJCAA DII Softball World Series Title, but their first ever national tournament appearance in program history. Garcia was almost unhittable during the tournament, tossing 25 1/3 innings while registering a 1.11 era with a 0.79 WHIP as she went 4-0 in the circle. Garcia's efforts were recognized as she was named the MVP of the tournament. During their World Series run, Pearl River remained unblemished, not falling to a single opponent. Entering the tournament as the No. 5 seed, the Wildcats dominantly took down the No. 1, No. 2, No. 4, No. 9 and No. 12 seeds to earn their spot in NJCAA history.
"Ana-Grace Garcia is one of the most composed, mature, and confident pitchers I have had the privilege of coaching. Two of her biggest strengths is how she keeps hitters guessing with her movement and change up and how unfazed she is by any kind of chaos," said Pearl River Head Coach, Christie Meeks. "Not only is she a great pitcher, but an even better human. Her integrity is unmatched. It has been a major blessing to be able to work with her, hand in hand, for the last two years! We are so proud of the legacy she has left at Pearl River CC."
Garcia's 2026 season has been one of remarkable intrigue. She made a total of 31 appearances this year, starting 24 games while recording two saves. In those 24 games started, 17 of them were complete games. Garcia registered a total of 166.2 innings, allowing just 126 hits and 51 earned runs. The sophomore pitcher struck out an impressive 187 batters, averaging 7.85 K's per 7 innings. Garcia dominated with a 2.14 ERA and a 1.07 WHIP.
The standout season from Garcia gained much national attention as she was recognized as an NFCA First Team All-American alongside two of her teammates, Shania Fondren and Jaycee Holifield. She was named as a First Team All-MACCC selection while also being named to the 2026 NJCAA DII Softball All-America First Team.
Garcia's pivotal role for the Wildcats has led her to be one of the most dominant pitchers in the nation. As her time at Pearl River comes to a close, Garcia will further her athletic and academic career at McNeese State University where she will continue to be a vital tool in the circle. Garcia's legacy on Pearl River has set a precedent for years to come, as they will continue to chase excellence and bring home another National Title.
2026 Stats
- 187 Strikeouts
- 51 Earned Runs
- 2.14 ERA
- 166.2 Innings Pitched
- 7.85 K/7
- 9 HR
- 17 Complete Games
2026 Accomplishments & Awards
- 2026 NJCAA DII Softball First Team All-America Selection
- 2026 NFCA DII Softball First Team All-America Selection
- 2026 First Team All-MACCC Selection
- 2026 NJCAA National Tournament MVP
