The Oklahoma Sooners softball program continues to solidify its dominance in collegiate softball with the addition of Lexi McDaniel, the nation’s top-ranked infielder in the 2025 recruiting class. McDaniel, a standout from St. Joseph Christian School in Missouri, officially signed her letter of intent with Oklahoma in November 2024, joining a recruiting class already heralded as the best in the country.
Despite her high school not offering a softball program, McDaniel showcased her exceptional talent through travel ball with Aces Fastpitch 18U National. Her impressive statistics include 578 hits, 93 home runs, 413 RBIs, and 461 runs scored, making her the club’s all-time leader in these categories. Her performance earned her the title of Aces Fastpitch Organization Offensive Player of the Year.
McDaniel’s versatility on the field is noteworthy; she is capable of playing multiple infield positions, offering the Sooners flexibility in their lineup. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond the diamond, as she is an honor roll student and active in community service, volunteering with organizations such as Mosaic Hospital and the Salvation Army.ย
Joining McDaniel in the 2025 class are other top-tier talents: outfielder Kai Minor, pitcher Allyssa Parker, catcher Kendall Wells, and pitcher Berkley Zache. This group represents a significant infusion of talent, with each player bringing unique strengths to the team.ย
Head coach Patty Gasso expressed enthusiasm about the incoming class, stating, “Our staff is very pleased to sign another No. 1 class in the country. This group of six represents one of the most athletic and powerful recruiting classes we have ever assembled.”ย
With McDaniel’s addition, the Sooners are poised to continue their legacy of excellence in collegiate softball. Her combination of athletic prowess, versatility, and leadership qualities make her a valuable asset to the team as they aim for continued success in the coming seasons.
