Arizona Catcher Sydney Stewart Earns AUSL Golden Ticket

TUCSON, Ariz. — University of Arizona catcher Sydney Stewart received an AUSL golden ticket on March 29, 2026, presented by Arizona legend and AUSL advisor Jennie Finch. Stewart is the second Wildcat to earn a golden ticket after Devyn Netz received one in 2025.

Stewart has built one of the most impressive offensive careers in recent Arizona softball history. She has amassed 40-plus home runs, 150-plus RBIs, and 120-plus walks while maintaining a career .695 slugging percentage and .346 batting average. In 2026, Stewart leads the Big 12 with 56 RBIs and 1.60 RBIs per game while ranking fifth in the conference with 13 home runs.

With Stewart’s announcement, four of the 17 total golden tickets have been awarded. The AUSL College Draft Show airs May 4 on ESPN2.

Finch Delivers the News

Jennie Finch, the Olympic gold medalist and AUSL advisor, traveled to Tucson to deliver Stewart’s Golden Ticket in an on-field ceremony after the Wildcats’ victory. Finch has personally presented multiple Golden Tickets during the 2026 pre-draft cycle, serving as one of the league’s most visible ambassadors.

Finch’s connection to the Arizona program made the presentation particularly meaningful. As a former Wildcat, Finch understands the tradition and expectations of Arizona softball, and her involvement in the ceremony highlighted the AUSL’s investment in connecting current players to the sport’s legends.

Stewart’s Draft Profile

Stewart’s versatility sets her apart from other prospects in the 2026 class. Her ability to play catcher, utility roles and multiple defensive positions gives AUSL teams significant roster flexibility, a valuable asset in a league where 17-player rosters require multi-position depth.

As the fourth Golden Ticket recipient, Stewart joined NiJaree Canady (Texas Tech), Reese Atwood (Texas) and Leighann Goode (Texas) as confirmed draft selections. Karlyn Pickens of Tennessee would later become the fifth recipient on April 2.

The 2026 AUSL College Draft is scheduled for May 4 at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2. All six teams will make selections from the pool of Golden Ticket holders and eligible college athletes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Sydney Stewart?

Sydney Stewart is a senior catcher at the University of Arizona. She received an AUSL golden ticket on March 29, 2026, and is the second Arizona player to earn one.

What are Sydney Stewart’s career stats?

Stewart has 40-plus home runs, 150-plus RBIs, and a career .695 slugging percentage at Arizona. In 2026, she leads the Big 12 with 56 RBIs.

Who presented Sydney Stewart’s golden ticket?

Jennie Finch, the Arizona softball legend and AUSL advisor, presented Stewart’s golden ticket.