GAMES
RANKINGS
THE TIER LIST: VYPE DFW Preseason Softball Rankings; Melissa, Guyer flexing early on
Contrary to what the current chilly temperatures might indicate, the spring edition of the UIL season is officially underway, marking the start of the race toward Red & Charline McCombs Field.
In the Dallas-Fort Worth region, the Melissa Cardinals are the early favorites, and for good reason.
After a historic 2024 season, Melissa not only reached the State Tournament for the first time in program history, but they also secured the UIL-5A Title.
What’s even more daunting for opponents is the return of nearly the entire championship roster, including State MVP Caigan Crabtree (Texas-commit), along with All-Tournament selections Alexandra Starr (Michigan State), Kennedy Bradley (Florida), and Amariee Bradford (So. IF).
Shifting focus from the 5A favorites, Denton Guyer, fresh off their second consecutive State Final Four appearance, is aiming for a third trip out of Region I, with no intention of settling for another bronze medal.
Other 6A powerhouses, such as Keller, Forney, and Southlake Carroll, are expected to make noise this season, while Aledo, Centennial, and Walnut Grove will lead the charge in 5A.
While predicting the season's outcome is never an exact science, here are VYPE's top softball teams from DFW to watch as the 2025 campaign begins.
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*Parentheses indicates current district
*Last section indicates 2024 result
VYPE DALLAS-FORT WORTH SOFTBALL TOP-10 (Class 6A-4A)
1. Melissa Cardinals (13-5A) -- 38-2-1; 11-1 in District (UIL-5A State Champions)
2. Denton Guyer Wildcats (5-6A) -- 37-5; 13-1 (State Semifinalists)
3. Keller Indians (4-6A) -- 29-11-2; 12-0 (Regional Finalists)
4. Forney Jackrabbits (10-6A) -- 38-5-3; 12-0 (Regional Finalists)
5. Aledo Bearcats (5-5A) -- 35-4; 12-0 (State Semifinalists)
6. Southlake Carroll Dragons (4-6A) -- 34-10 (Regional Semifinalists)
7. Centennial Spartans (8-5A) -- 32-9; 15-1 (Regional Finalists)
8. Walnut Grove Wildcats (13-5A) -- 38-5; 14-0 (Regional Semifinalists)
9. Plano West Wolves (6-6A) -- 24-14-1; 8-6 (Regional Semifinalists)
10. Wakeland Wolverines (12-5A) -- 24-10; 11-3 (Regional Semifinalists)
Honorable Mentions: FM Marcus (5-6A), Timber Creek (4-6A), Sanger (9-4A), Hebron (5-6A), Aubrey (10-4A)
STATE PREVIEW: Aledo makes seventh state tourney appearance
Dropping only three games this season, the Aledo Lady Bearcats softball team is headed to their seventh playoff appearance-- third time in four seasons. VYPE DFW takes a look at the team and what fans can expect heading into the state tournament:
So Far:
The team has posted a 92% win percentage this season so far, the team recorded incredible victories over talented non-district opponents like Waxahachie (9-2), Prosper (8-1), Hallsville (6-0), Keller (12-3), Corsicana (9-4), and more en route to district play. Through district play, the team faced off against other programs who have a history of excellence in the area. Without hesitation, the team downed Wichita Falls Rider (17-0), Justin Northwest (14-1), Saginaw (10-0), Granbury (11-0), and more in order to secure a top-of-their-district finish with a 12-0 district record.
Led by the likes of Ana Flores, Brenlee Gonzales, Jordyn Edington, Austyn Marriage, Kennis Marx, Addie Perry, Marina Tavares, and several other talented athletes, the team focused their efforts toward the playoffs where they continued their dominant run. With victories over Everman (15-0, 14-0), Birdbille (3-2), Joshua (2-1), Monterey (7-1, 5-4), and Burleson Centennial (2-0, 12-7), the team punched their ticket to the UIL State Tournament.
What To Expect:
Aledo is headed into the semifinals against newcomers Harlingen South. Though their opponent is tough and ready to put up a fight, Aledo might have the advantage in being familiar with this stage of play. Not looking to be outdone, the Lady Bearcats have put in the work and are prepared to showcase their talents on the biggest stage of high school softball.
Fans can expect this squad to put up a fight as they take on Harlingen South in the state semifinals. Expected to continue strong, the Lady Bearcats are looking to dominate the bracket at the state tournament. Be sure you catch the team in action as the semifinals begin on Thursday, May 31st at 1 p.m.!