Softball America Names the Top Five Players in Texas — The Surprising Rankings and Anabela’s Remarkable Journey to the Top of the Game.

Softball America Names the Top Five Players in Texas — The Surprising Rankings and Anabela’s Remarkable Journey to the Top of the Game.

 

In a much-anticipated release, Softball America has unveiled its list of the top five high school softball players in Texas — and the rankings are sparking conversation across the state. Topping the list is senior standout Anabela Cruz, a name that just a year ago wasn’t even in the state’s top 50.

 

The list, compiled based on player stats, team impact, and intangibles like leadership and resilience, includes longtime favorites like pitcher Jada Milton (ranked #3) and slugger Kenzie Rawls (ranked #2). But it’s Anabela’s meteoric rise to #1 that has fans and coaches buzzing.

 

Her journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Coming from a small town near Lubbock, Anabela overcame early injuries and limited exposure to earn a spot on a competitive travel team last summer. It was there she turned heads with her explosive bat speed, commanding presence at shortstop, and an unmatched work ethic. By mid-season, she was batting over .500 and had logged 12 home runs and 40 RBIs — all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

 

“She’s the definition of grit,” said her coach, Marlene Ayers. “She doesn’t just want to be great — she works for it every day.”

 

Anabela’s story resonates beyond the field. As a first-generation college-bound student, she recently committed to play Division I softball at the University of Texas — a dream she once thought unreachable.

 

With the spotlight now squarely on her, Anabela Cruz is not just a name on a list — she’s a symbol of what determination, talent, and heart can achieve.