UCLA is using fall ball to build team culture, leadership and depth ahead of 2027, as seven freshmen and two transfers join a roster replacing a record-setting offense. Junior Aleena Garcia and her classmates are helping newcomers adapt, while the Bruins emphasize a simple hitting approach and a deeper pitching staff.

By the Numbers
  • UCLA’s 2026 offense set NCAA records with 672 runs, 209 home runs, a .825 slugging percentage, a .490 on-base percentage and 325 walks.
  • Garcia hit .358 with 22 home runs, 69 RBIs and a 1.280 OPS last season.
  • The Bruins’ 2027 roster has 27 players, including seven freshmen, two transfers and seven pitchers.
  • Transfer pitchers Cambria Salmon and Meika Lauppe combined for a 25-14 record and 257 strikeouts in their most recent college seasons.
Yes, But

UCLA must replace key contributors, including Megan Grant and Jordan Woolery, and cannot assume last season’s record-breaking production will return. The team’s plan is to keep its approach simple and rely on contributions from across a deeper roster.

State of Play
  • Fall practices focus on establishing the “Bruin Way” and building connections among returning players and newcomers.
  • Garcia, Kaniya Bragg, Sofia Mujica and Rylee Slimp are expected to provide leadership, though UCLA does not appoint captains.
  • Salmon and Lauppe are strengthening a bullpen that gives the Bruins more options.
What's Next

UCLA will carry its fall development into the 2027 season, aiming to turn its expanded roster and shared hitting approach into production without relying on the same stars or numbers as last year.

Bottom Line

The Bruins’ reset is built around people, not records: developing a connected team with enough depth to find new ways to win.