ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON SOFTBALLAMERICA.COM
As Softball America grows its coverage at all levels, we continue our recruiting spotlight series with Mary Peyton Hodge. Hodge is committed to Arizona State and with strengths residing in the spin on her curveball and riseball, she will certainly add depth to the Sun Devils pitching staff.
Name: Mary Peyton Hodge
Primary Position(s): LHP
Class Year: 2025
Hometown: Winston Salem, NC
Travel Ball Organization: Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 18U
What about Arizona State did you love the most?
I loved the coaches and the atmosphere that they have created. I’m excited to be a part of their resurgence.
What is your favorite travel ball memory?
My favorite travel ball memory is finishing third at PGF Nationals in our first year of 16U with Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier Kaplan. No one expected us to make it that far that week. I pitched really well that week and our team played extremely well.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from a coach?
The most important thing that I learned is that you can’t be perfect and you will definitely have bad days. The key is to push through the struggle and use it as motivation to be better.
How did you get interested in softball?
I started playing t-ball in my community when I was five. I started playing softball when I was seven and I loved it.
What are your strengths as a player? What are you trying to improve on the most?
My strengths as a pitcher are my spin and competitiveness. My spin on my curveball and riseball is definitely a strength. My competitiveness comes out on the field as well. I’m working to be more consistent with my changeup and I’m working to gain velocity like everyone else.
What player(s) do you look up to the most?
The first player that I looked up to was Ryan Rector who played at USC Upstate. I went to camps there every summer when I was younger and she always made me feel special.
At my pitching coach’s facility, there are so many pictures of great players on the wall. I get to see current college pitchers such as Jala Wright, Reagan Spencer, and Kiersten Deal. They are also awesome people that I look up to.
What are your favorite hobbies outside of softball?
I love spending time with my family at the lake. I also love listening to music, working out, and spending time with my friends.
What excites you the most about playing college softball?
I’m excited to play softball at the highest level when I get to college. I’m excited to see different parts of the country as well. The gear will be a cool extra too!
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