Florida Softball Heads West For Judi Garman Classic
No. 4/5 Florida softball heads west this week for the 2026 Judi Garman Classic, a four-day tournament featuring strong nonconference competition in California.
Florida enters the tournament with momentum on its side as it walks into Fullerton undefeated, setting up an early-season opportunity to prove that its strong start can translate against elevated competition. The tournament field includes No. 8/9 UCLA, California, LMU, Oregon State and East Texas A&M.
While most top-ranked softball programs have already faced ranked opponents, Florida is still searching for its first game against a ranked team this season. For that reason, the matchup with No. 8/9 UCLA stands out as the marquee contest of the weekend. Facing a ranked opponent early in the season provides Florida an opportunity to measure itself against national competition while strengthening its resume ahead of SEC play, which it largely hasn’t done so far.
Florida’s early success has been fueled by a number of key contributors, both offensively and defensively. On the mound, Keagan Rothrock continues to anchor the pitching staff with poise and command, setting the tone early in games as she tossed a complete-game shutout with a season-high 11 strikeouts against Middle Tennessee in her last outing. Kenleigh Cahalan leads the team with a .500 batting average, pacing Florida offensively with its most consistent contact at the plate. Taylor Shumaker has emerged as another reliable bat with a .426 average and 27 runs this season, the most on the team.
Florida’s offense as a whole is among the nation’s best, boasting a batting average near .389, which ranks in the top 10 nationally. If the team continues on this path, the Gators will be well-positioned to protect its undefeated start against elevated competition this weekend.
Beyond the rankings, the tournament layout presents its own challenges. With multiple games across consecutive days, pitching depth and defensive consistency will be key. Managing innings in the circle while maintaining offensive production will be crucial as the Gators navigate a condensed schedule.
The Judi Garman Class annually serves as a benchmark event before conference competition heats up. For Florida, the trip to California offers both a test and an opportunity. It will serve as a chance to sharpen execution, gain experience against top-tier programs and build momentum moving forward.
Florida begins play Thursday with a doubleheader, facing Cal at 8 p.m. ET before taking on East Texas A&M at 10:30 p.m. The Gators return to the field on Friday for another two-game slate, starting with No. 8/9 UCLA at 5:30 p.m. and closing the day out with LMU at 8 p.m. The Gators continue tournament play Saturday against Oregon State at 3 p.m.
WRUF will have coverage of all Florida games at the Judi Garman Classic throughout the weekend.
Category: Gators Softball, Softball
