New Look, Same Fight: Redside Reds Eye 2026 Comeback

SEATTLE, Wash- A first-round playoff loss ended the Redside Reds’ 2025 season early, but a retooled roster and a bold new identity suggest 2026 could look very different.

The Redside Reds went 5–4 last season, finishing fifth out of eight teams before a first-round playoff loss to the Louisville Chuggers ended their run. The early exit helped shape a more resilient group that now embraces an underdog identity heading into 2026. That shift is reflected in a new look, as the Reds take the field in black dry-fit shirts featuring an angry green fish wearing a Seattle-red cap…a symbol of the team’s renewed energy.

With 12 of 19 players returning, the Reds bring back a core built on chemistry and familiarity. One of those returners is former Division III pitcher Justin Weeks of Whitman College, who transitioned from a multi-position role to the mound during his college career. As a senior, he logged multiple outings of seven or more innings, including an eight-inning shutout. He has been serving as both coach and pitcher for the past few seasons for the Reds which is why Weeks remains a key piece of their roster heading into 2026.

Kristin Anderson is another returner who brings a strong athletic background to the Redside Reds despite not having a softball pedigree. She played Division I soccer at the University of Nevada, earning multiple Western Athletic Conference Player of the Week honors and helping lead her team to a conference championship. Her team also reached as high as No. 22 in the national rankings and made an NCAA Tournament appearance during her senior season.

A tentative returner for the Redside Reds is Blair Frederick, who brings collegiate baseball experience similar to Justin Weeks. He began his career Division I at LSU before transferring to San Jacinto College, where he posted a 3.38 ERA with 12 strikeouts in eight innings. He was known in college for a low-90s fastball and sharp slider, but Frederick showed versatility last season on the Reds by contributing in the outfield. He was a reliable defender and consistent presence at the plate. His status for 2026, however, remains uncertain as he awaits MRI results following a knee injury suffered during flag football.

Another outfield contributor from last season, Kalee Graff, is not currently listed on the 2026 roster. Graff is a former Division I beach volleyball player at Cal Poly, where she was coached by a 2008 Olympic gold medalist. Her team won three Big West Conference championships and made three NCAA Tournament appearances, with Cal Poly consistently ranked inside the top 10 nationally and reaching as high as No. 6. With Graff out and Frederick uncertain, the outfield is going to look different.

Despite the potential loss from 2025, the Redside Reds will still bring back several familiar names who contributed in 2025 and add value from their diverse athletic backgrounds. Alex Hunter played baseball in high school and provided competitiveness, steady encouragement and consistency at the plate last season. Hunter is taking on a coaching role for the 2026 season and is a player to watch out for. Cassadee Erickson, who played softball growing up, added a vocal presence and strong communication in the field which is something to expect again this year. Aljohn Gaviola, while new to baseball, brings elite speed after competing in the 110-meter hurdles and qualifying for the state meet, giving the Reds another athletic option on the bases.

Regardless of which names ultimately return to the 2026 roster, one of the Reds’ key improvements is roster balance. Last season, the team was penalized in a few games for not meeting the required gender ratio on the field, but this issue has since been addressed with the addition of Lacey Figueroa, Chandra Roussell, and Mia Favela. The new additions not only ensure compliance, but also give the Reds greater lineup flexibility. “Girly pop reporting for duty,” Figueroa joked upon joining the team.

The Redside Reds will be tested immediately in their season opener against RFIs and RBIs after falling 15 -8 in last year’s matchup. Come out to support the team this Tuesday May 12th at 7:45pm at Miller Playfield where you’ll find free parking and good vibes!