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 Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025:

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THE FINAL PITCH: TAELYN “TAE” HOLLEY

Tennessee-bound CF Taelyn Holley, #7 in the 2025 Line Drive Hot 100, recently talked to Line Drive Media about Athletics Mercado-Smith, winning IE Player of the Year, Birmingham Thunderbolts, overcoming injury, athletic family, Tennessee, photography, math, Mike Trout, “Mindset Gym,” Drake, “Outer Banks,” Pitch Perfect 2″ and football.

THE FINAL PITCH Q&A

Name: Taelyn Holley

Hometown: Murrieta, CA

High School: Murrieta Mesa High

Club Team: Athletics Mercado-Smith 18U

Graduation Year: 2025

Height: 5-6

Position/s: CF

Nickname: “Tae,” because it’s short for my real name.

Social Media: @taeholleyy on Instagram

Honors: #7 in the 2025 Line Drive Hot 100, Cal-Hi Sports Junior Player of the Year, Southwest League MVP, three-time 1st Team All-State, Inland Empire Player of the Year, two-time 1st Team All-CIF, All-State Underclassman, Alliance All-Tournament and top-25 by MaxPreps.

High School Spring Stats: .598 AVG, .708 OBP, 49 hits, 59 runs and 11 HRs.

Travel Ball Summer 2024 Stats: .419 AVG, .544 OBP, 26 hits, 21 runs and 1 HR.

Travel Ball Fall 2024 Stats: .476 AVG, .557 OBP, 39 hits, 30 runs and 9 HRs.