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 Monday, Jan. 19, 2026:

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THE FINAL PITCH: MAKAYLA “MJ” FIKES

Uncommitted 2028 C/3B Makayla “MJ” Fikes recently talked to Line Drive Media about Suncats Jimnez, PGF Nationals, California players, Athletics Mercado-Smith, losing grandparents, future college, college camps, nursing, English, Kobe Bryant, “The Great Gatsby,” “Leave The Door Open,” “Chicago PD” and “Wonder.”

THE FINAL PITCH Q&A

Name: Makayla “MJ” Fikes

Hometown: San Jose, CA

High School: Archbishop Mitty High

Club Team: Suncats Jimenez 18U

Graduation Year: 2028

Height: 5-3

Position/s: C/3B

Nickname: My nickname is “MJ,” and it came from my full name Makayla Jaylen Fikes.

Social Media: @mjfikes_2028 on Instagram and @mjfikes2028 on Twitter

Honors: 1st Team All-League WCAA and nominated or Cal-Hi Sports All-State.

High School Spring 2025 Stats: .359 AVG, .440 OBP, .956 OPS, .516 SLG, 64 ABs, 23 hits, 4 doubles, 2 HRs, 17 RBIs, 7 BBs, 10 Ks, 84 innings caught and 1 CS.

Travel Ball Spring/Summer 2025: .414 AVG, .465 OBP, 1.172 OPS, .707 SLG, 116 ABs, 48 hits, 14 doubles, 1 triple, 6 HRs, 28 RBIs, 12 BBs, 10 Ks, 127.1 innings caught and 12 CS.

Travel Ball Fall 2025 Stats: .341 AVG, .413 OBP, 1.216 OPS, .802 SLG, 91 ABs, 31 hits, 12 doubles, 10 HRs, 30 RBIs, 11 BBs, 11 Ks, 88.2 innings caught and 13 CS.