Blazing the Basepaths: Audrey Vandagriff Powers Alabama’s 100+ Stolen Base Explosion in Freshman Honors Hunt
The Alabama Crimson Tide softball team has long been known for its dominance in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), but this season, a new name is capturing the spotlight—freshman sensation Audrey Vandagriff. With blazing speed, fearless aggression, and elite instincts, Vandagriff has not only stolen bases but also stolen hearts in Tuscaloosa and beyond. As the Tide surpasses the 100-stolen-base mark for the season, much of the credit belongs to this rising star, whose electric debut has her firmly in contention for National Freshman of the Year honors.
From the first pitch of the 2025 season, Vandagriff made it clear she wasn’t just another newcomer—she was a game-changer. Despite her youth, the freshman outfielder displayed a maturity and competitive edge well beyond her years. Whether diving for a catch in the outfield or breaking for second on a daring steal, Vandagriff brought a spark that ignited the entire Crimson Tide lineup.
Head coach Patrick Murphy, known for cultivating gritty, high-character players, spoke glowingly about Vandagriff’s impact. “Audrey is one of the most dynamic players I’ve had the pleasure to coach,” he said after a recent SEC tournament win. “She doesn’t just run the bases—she controls them. Opposing pitchers and catchers have to constantly account for her, and that changes the whole game for us.”
Vandagriff’s stats support the hype. With over 35 stolen bases on the season, she has shattered program expectations and placed herself among the national leaders. Her presence on the basepaths has forced defenses into errors, pitchers into rushed deliveries, and catchers into off-target throws. In one memorable series against LSU, Vandagriff stole five bases in three games—two of which directly led to game-winning runs.
But it’s not just the numbers that make her season remarkable. Vandagriff plays with infectious energy and enthusiasm. After each successful steal or base hit, her celebrations and cheers rally the team, embodying the Crimson Tide’s fighting spirit. Teammates often refer to her as the “engine” that keeps the offense moving.
Beyond her individual performance, Vandagriff’s influence has had a domino effect on the entire team. Alabama, traditionally a power-hitting squad, has added a new layer of speed and pressure to its offensive approach. The result? Over 100 stolen bases on the year—a milestone the program hasn’t reached in nearly a decade.
Sports analysts are taking note. Vandagriff has been named to multiple midseason All-American and watch lists, with many predicting she could be the first Alabama player in years to win national Freshman of the Year honors. If she continues at this pace through the postseason, that prediction may well come true.
Alabama fans, too, have embraced the freshman phenom. Social media is flooded with highlights of her sliding into bases, making leaping catches, and flashing her signature smile. At home games, young fans are already wearing jerseys with her number, eager to emulate their new hero.
As the Crimson Tide gears up for the NCAA Regionals, Audrey Vandagriff will be a central figure in their postseason ambitions. With her speed, heart, and unrelenting drive, she has not only redefined what a freshman can contribute—she’s helped reshape Alabama softball’s identity for years to come.
In Tuscaloosa, one thing is now certain: the basepaths belong to Audrey Vandagriff. And she’s just getting started.
