8 college softball teams that could win their new conferences after realignment

The 2025 college softball season will look a little different in the conference standings due to some notable conference realignments. Powerhouses like Oklahoma, Texas and UCLA are shifting landscapes, while other teams are also making moves that could redefine their competitive status.

Here are the teams best positioned to win their new leagues in 2025.

Big Ten contenders

UCLA

• 2024 record: 43-12 (Women’s College World Series appearance)
• Key returners: Taylor Tinsley (P), Addisen Fisher (P, freshman)

UCLA joins the Big Ten as the most decorated program in college softball history with 12 national championships. The Bruins offense, which hit 65 home runs last season, should dominate Big Ten pitching. The biggest advantage? Their pitching staff is led by Taylor Tinsley (1.90 ERA, 166 K in 2024) and incoming freshman ace Addisen Fisher. UCLA should be the instant favorite to take the Big Ten crown.

Oregon

• 2024 record: 30-21 (lost to Oklahoma in the regional finals)
• Key returners: Paige Sinicki (INF), Kai Luschar (OF)

The Ducks bring a history of Pac-12 success, making the WCWS six times, most recently in 2018. Along with stepping into a new conference, Oregon will be taking its longtime rivalry with Washington with it. Before starting Big Ten play, Oregon will compete in the Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic and other events.

ACC contenders

Stanford

• 2024 record: 50-17 (Women’s College World Series appearance)
• Key returners: River Mahler (INF), Taryn Kern (INF)

Stanford moves to the ACC as an immediate contender, even after losing star pitcher NiJaree Canady to Texas Tech via the transfer portal. The Cardinal finished second nationally in ERA (1.62) last year and still have enough pitching depth to compete with Florida State and other ACC contenders. Their biggest challenge will be replacing Canady’s 337 strikeouts and 0.73 ERA, but the Cardinal have the talent to compete right away.

California

• 2024 record: 37-19 (lost in the regional round)
• Key returners: Acacia Anders (INF), Elon Butler (INF)

Cal’s offensive firepower — ranked top 25 nationally in home runs per game (1.19)—should translate well to the ACC. The Golden Bears will need to sharpen their defense after committing 54 errors last season, but if their pitching holds up, they could surprise.

Big 12 contenders

Arizona

• 2024 record: 37-18-1 (lost to Oklahoma State in the…