Hedgecock Recognized as D1Softball’s Most Improved Player

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Following an unforgettable final season in a Razorback jersey, Arkansas softball’s Rylin Hedgecock has been tabbed D1Softball’s Most Improved Player, the outlet announced Monday.

A 2023 NFCA First Team All-American (DP/UTL), Hedgecock was explosive at the plate in her breakout redshirt junior season on The Hill. Slashing .335/.774/.459 with 21 home runs, 55 hits, 62 RBI, 41 runs scored and 127 total bases, Hedgecock ranked among the nation’s best in several categories en route to hauling in All-SEC honors. Hedgecock ranked second in the league and fifth nationally in home runs while sitting second in the conference and ninth nationally in RBI.

Hedgecock quickly wrote her name into the program’s single-season record book, launching the third-most home runs (21) and RBI (62). Hedgecock’s 127 total bases rank fourth while her slugging percentage sits fifth in the program’s single-season top 10 as well.

Arkansas is coming off its third consecutive 40-win season and a top-four SEC finish along with the program’s sixth consecutive NCAA Tournament berth. Earning the No. 11 national seed, all four of the program’s national seeds have been accumulated under head coach Courtney Deifel.

For schedule updates and other news, go to ArkansasRazorbacks.com, or follow @RazorbackSB on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.