MaxPrepsand Extra Inning Softball have partnered to elevate high school softball coverage with the MaxPreps & Extra Inning Softball Golden Awards. This initiative will highlight standout athletes in three key areas: Golden Glove, Golden Arm, and Golden Bat. Throughout the season, top players in each category will be recognized, with final awards presented at the end of the high school season.
Needham Shares Her Approach
Emily Needham, who has been recognized in our Golden Arm Awards in three categories — Most Strikeouts (254), No-Hitters (2), and Most Wins (12) — shared her mindset and goals when stepping into the circle:
“I would say my mindset in the circle is me just trying to do my job and give my team the best chance at success that I can.
Some goals I set for myself going into games are getting ahead in the count, maximizing my spin to induce ground balls and pop-ups, and being a good teammate and leader.”
Emily Needham, Saint James
How the Golden Arm Award Works
Each Wednesday, every other week, until June 13, top pitchers will be featured across four key categories, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of pitching excellence. These rankings are updated as of March 31 and will continue to highlight the best performances throughout the season.
The Golden Arm Award is divided into four subcategories, allowing pitchers with different strengths to be recognized:
Lowest ERA – This category celebrates pitchers with the lowest earned run averages, a key metric that showcases consistency and effectiveness on the mound.
Most Strikeouts (K’s) – The pitcher with the most strikeouts will be honored for their ability to dominate hitters and set the tone for their team’s success.
No-Hitters – Achieving a no-hitter is one of the greatest feats in softball, and this category recognizes those pitchers who accomplish this historic achievement.
Most Wins – The top pitchers in terms of wins will be spotlighted, showcasing those who consistently lead their teams to victory throughout the season.
Sanchez Shares Her Gratitude
Kadyn Sanchez, who has been recognized for the second time in our Golden Arm Awards for throwing three no-hitters, shared her gratitude: “I am incredibly honored to be recognized in the Golden Arm rankings amongst so many great athletes. This achievement would not be possible without the support of my club and high school coaches, as well as my teammates, who constantly push me to improve and challenge me to be better every day.
Lastly, I want to express my thank my family for their endless love and encouragement. Their support has helped shape me into the leader I strive to be, both on and off the field.”
Kadyn Sanchez, Santa Clara
Here’s your High School Top 25 Golden Arm Rankings in each Category!
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MaxPreps and Extra Inning Softball continue to spotlight the nation’s top pitchers, power hitters and defenders.
Every other week, standout athletes will be featured in High School rankings, with final awards presented at the end of the high school season. Stay tuned for more updates as we celebrate the best talent in the game.
Jordan Mcnees, Wakeland
Final Thoughts
The Golden Arm Award is redefining how pitching excellence is recognized in high school softball. By celebrating athletes across four key categories, MaxPreps and Extra Inning Softball ensure that every dominant performance gets the spotlight it deserves.
In addition to these rankings, Extra Inning Softball continues to feature the Extra Elite 100, Extra Select, Extra Prospects, Fastpitch Fan Picks, Hitters Hotlists, and the National Honor Roll, providing a comprehensive look at the top athletes in the sport.
For the latest rankings, updates, and training resources, visit Extra Inning Softball’s website and stay connected with the fastest-growing softball community.
Head Coach John Carpenter shared his thoughts on Hailey Brennan, who is recognized in our Top 25 Lowest ERA rankings:
“Hailey Brennan is a fierce competitor in the circle. She leads with passion and presence, both on and off the field. Brennan will be a big-time commit. There are very few kids I have coached over the years with her work ethic and approach to the game. She just wins!”
Provides advanced training insights from top athletes
Available exclusively to EIS members
Players and coaches can access The Drill Zone on the Extra Inning Softball website under the “Extra Extra” tab. This platform is designed to help athletes at all levels refine their mechanics, improve consistency, and learn from the best in fastpitch softball.
Hannah DeMarcus, Pace
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