St. Mary’s University alumna and Rattler Softball pitcher Ariella Saenz (M.Jur. ’25) has been recognized as the nation’s top NCAA Division II pitcher by being named to the 2026 NCAA Division II Rawlings Gold Glove team, the first in St. Mary’s history to win the prestigious honor.

Ariella Saenz starts as pitcher during a game against Western New Mexico.
Ariella Saenz starts as pitcher during a game against Western New Mexico.

One of nine players selected — one award is given to each defensive position in softball — Saenz, of Pharr, Texas, was recognized as the winner for her work as pitcher. The Rawlings Gold Glove Award is presented annually to the top defensive players in both softball and baseball based on game statistics and regional voting.

Saenz helped lead the Rattler Softball team to a 31-24 overall record and an appearance in the NCAA South Central Regional tournament.

Saenz ranks second in the Lone Star Conference with 28 games started and 175.1 innings pitched, while also coming in third in shutouts (4) and fourth in fewest walks allowed per seven innings (1.68). She also finished second in the league and 30th nationally in toughest to strike out, doing so only three times in 115 plate appearances.

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