Pearsall pitching phenom sets LL milestone

By Manuel Azocar III - Sports Writer/Managing Editor | May 13, 2025

PEARSALL LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL

Ariza sets new Little League strikeout mark with 116 through ten games.

Local buzz is building in the Little League community as another youngster is making waves for feats on the diamond in Pearsall.
Pearsall 12 and under pitching phenom Jada Ariza set the local Little League strikeout record on Saturday, May 10.
The 12-year-old pitcher for the Pearsall Toros 12U softball team racked up 116 strikeouts in only ten games this season, dominating hitters with a mix of power, precision, and presence.
She has tossed a pair of no-hitters this year, has multiple shutouts and has remarkable allowed a singled earned run for the entire year.
Ariza has an earned run average of 0.13 over 54 innings pitched.
“Before each pitch, Jada brings intensity to the circle with her signature Jordy Bahl-style arm swing, mirroring the energy and poise of one of college softball’s most electric pitchers,” Toros Head Coach Bill Wolfe said. “Her 52 mile-per-hour velocity puts her well into the elite category for 12U pitchers — even competing with top 14U-level talent.”
According to national 12U softball standards, Ariza’s 0.13 ERA ranks her in the top one percent of youth pitchers nationwide. Her average of just over 11.5 strikeouts per game, far exceeds the national average of 6-9 strikeouts per game.

The passionate youngster credits her success to her dedicated catcher and teammate, Anjali Valdez, who has trained and played alongside her through every game.
“Without her behind the plate, none of this would be possible,” Jada says. “She worked hard, kept me focused, and knew exactly how to bring out the best in me.”
“Their chemistry and trust were a major force behind every shutout, strikeout, and championship run,” Coach Wolfe said.
Pearsall Little League President Randy Cruz also lauded Ariza for her milestone effort.
“Huge congratulations to Jada Ariza for reaching 100 strikeouts,” he said on the league’s Facebook page. “Behind every great pitcher is a great catcher and Jada and Anajali Valdez are the dynamic duo.
“You’ve been a dominant pitcher and catcher and this is a well-deserved milestone. We are all so proud of your dedication and skill and we’re excited to see what you achieve next.
“Jadas got the fire, the speed, and the command,” another league coach said. “When she’s in the circle, you feel like you’re watching a future D1 (Division I) athlete.”
Ariza’s pitching dominance has been in the works since 2024, when she helped lead her travel team, Maverick Gold, to a dominant 42-2 record. The squad captured 12 consecutive tournament championships a year ago and was a showcase for her ability in thriving under pressure against top-level competition across Texas.
“With her combination of power, presence, and precision, Jada has established herself as not just a hometown hero, but a player whose talent is making waves far beyond Pearsall,” Wolfe said.