Arkansas senior outfielder Dakota Kennedy was picked fourth in the third round of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League College Draft by the Carolina Blaze. In her standout season, Kennedy is hitting .343 with 46 hits, 14 home runs, and 43 RBIs. She’s tied for the team lead in homers and has set career highs in runs batted in and home runs. Kennedy made headlines with impressive performances, including a three-home-run game against Kansas and a six-RBI game against Alabama. This draft marks her as the fourth Arkansas player to join the AUSL.

By the Numbers
  • Kennedy has 14 home runs and 43 RBIs this season, setting career highs.
  • The Razorbacks finished the regular season with a 41-10 record and a 15-9 SEC mark.
State of Play
  • The AUSL College Draft expands opportunities for athletes in professional softball.
  • Kennedy will face former Razorback Bri Ellis multiple times during the regular season.
What's Next

Kennedy and the Carolina Blaze will kick off their season on June 9. Meanwhile, Kennedy's Razorbacks will compete in the 2026 SEC Tournament on May 6 against the winner of the Mississippi State/Kentucky match.

Bottom Line

Kennedy’s successful season and subsequent draft status highlight her significant impact at Arkansas and the growing prominence of the AUSL, offering new professional opportunities in women’s softball.