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, Sept. 22, 2025:

*****

THE FINAL PITCH: AVA GUNDLING

Maryland-committed 2026 OF Ava Gundling, #25 in the 2026 Line Drive Hot 100, recently talked to Line Drive Media about Unity-Torres/Slezak, Alliance Nationals, Ohio players, Texas Glory-Shelton, balancing school and athletics, athletic family, Maryland, business, science, Bethany Hamilton, Drake, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” and singing.

THE FINAL PITCH Q&A

Name: Ava Gundling

Hometown: Kirtland, OH

High School: Gilmour Academy High

Club Team: Unity-Torres/Slezak 18U

Graduation Year: 2026

Height: 5-8

Position/s: CF/LF

Nickname: “Gunny,” my high school Coach, (Tony) Bondra, gave me this nickname my freshman year. My last name is Gundling, so he just shortened it.

Social Media: @avahelen86 on Instagram and @Ava_Gundling on Twitter

Honors: AP Literature and AP Language

Travel Ball Fall 2024 Stats: .460 AVG, 7 HRs, 22 RBIs and .672 OBP.

High School Spring 2025 Stats: 15 games, .667 AVG, 12 HRs, 1.750 SLG, .750 OBP and 32 RBIs.

Travel Ball Summer 2025 Stats: .475 AVG, 13 HRs, .550 OBP, 42 RBIs, .915 SLG and 10 of 10 SBs.