Get on board with Line Drive Media’s regular feature, The Final Pitch!

We are scouring the Internet and Social Media and keeping our ears to the street for the latest going on in the softball community.

To contribute information, insights, thoughts or content ideas, email us at carlos.arias@linedrivemedia.com, DM at @los_stuff on Twitter or text (949) 606-3602.

Here’s our TFP for Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025:

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THE FINAL PITCH: MCLAINE HUDSON

Kentucky-committed 2026 MI/UT McLaine Hudson recently talked to Line Drive Media about Louisville Lady Sluggers-Huecker/Norwood, Alliance Nationals, winning a 16U Alliance national championship, winning Kentucky Gatorade State Player of the Year Award, Kentucky players, Team USA, tough opponents, playing for the love of the game, athletic family, Kentucky, physical therapist, the Bible, “Return of the Mack,” “Emily in Paris,” “A Star is Born” and hair-braiding.

THE FINAL PITCH Q&A

Name: McLaine Hudson

Hometown: Bowling Green, KY

High School: South Warren High

Club Team: Louisville Sluggers-Huecker/Norwood 18U

Graduation Year: 2026

Height: 5-4

Position/s: MIF/UT

Nickname: My nickname is “Mac.” Some of the dads on my 6-and-under softball team started calling me “Mac” as an abbreviated form of McLaine. I guess Mac was easier to yell than McLaine.

Social Media: @mclaine_hudson on Instagram and @McLaineHudson1 on Twitter

Honors: Kentucky Gatorade Player of the Year (2025), four-time KY 1st Team All-State, Class 3A Player of the Year (2024), KHSAA All-Time hit leader (369 and counting) and KHSAA single-season hit leader (93).

Travel Ball Fall 2024 Stats: .492 AVG, .584 OBP, 32 runs and 22 SBs.

High School Spring 2025 Stats: .619 AVG, .667 OBP, 1.341 SLG, 11 doubles, 10 triples. 20 HRs, 82 runs and 35 SBs.

Travel Ball Summer 2025 Stats: .459 AVG, .560 OBP, 7 HRs and 16 SBs.