AUBURN, Ala. – Wednesday marked the signing of the 2026 Auburn softball class, the first group fully recruited by co-head coaches Chris and Kate Malveaux, and the Tigers celebrated with a nationally ranked squad that featured numerous all-state and all-American athletes from across the country.
According to Softball America’s recruiting rankings, Auburn softball secured six four-star signees, landing the overall No. 14 ranked signing class in the country. The six signees will join Auburn next fall ahead of the 2027 season.
“This is our first true recruiting class here at Auburn,” said co-head coach Kate Malveaux. “It’s one that hits our style of play on the head: gritty and in your face with a good mix of athleticism, physicality, discipline and sheer competitiveness. We could not be more excited to welcome each of them to the Auburn Family!”
All six members of the 2026 signing class are ranked as one of the top 15 recruits from their respective state with five ranking inside the top 10. The group has combined for four All-America selections, three All-State honors, six major yearly awards and have competed and won championships at the state and national levels.
Auburn’s 2026 class features infielder/pitcher Leah Byrd, outfielders Bella Maria and Cece Springfield, infielder Payton Valentine, catcher Taylor Surratt and pitcher Camryn Winiarski.