As the Butler softball team prepares to open the 2026 season next week (Feb. 6), Head Coach Scott Hall, who enters his 16th season at the helm of the program, has high expectations for returning starters and veterans, as well as a talented group of newcomers.
 
"The start of a season is always exciting!" exclaimed Coach Hall. "The feeling with this group is no different. They have worked hard in the offseason, and we are all ready to play some ball!"
 
The Bulldogs are coming off a 2025 season which saw the team win 14 BIG EAST games and qualify for postseason play for the fifth-consecutive season.
 
Two veteran pitchers return to the pitching circle in 2026. Senior Rylyn Dyer, who has accumulated 14 wins over three seasons, led the team last season with eight wins and four saves. Junior Katie Petran has 22 wins over the past two seasons and also led the team in strikeouts in that span.
 
The Bulldogs' pitching staff has added redshirt-sophomore transfer Maren Berger, from Utah State, along with freshmen Kate Murray and Alyx Johnson.
 
"We have a great mix of experience and talent," stated Hall. "Katie and Ry will again lead this group, as the upperclassmen, and the new additions will bring their talents to the circle. They are a very diverse group. I'm excited to see how they develop over the season!"
 
Behind the dish, Butler returns senior starter Kieli Ryan, who has ranked nationally over the past two seasons in runners caught stealing, along with sophomore Alona Boydston.
 
"There is nothing more calming to a coach or a pitching staff than to have leadership and experience behind the plate," said Hall. We have two of the best in the conference. Ki is coming into this season as one of the most lethal arms in the country. She sets the tone for our defense."