Oklahoma State Softball Experiencing Portal Exodus After Early Exit from NCAA Tournament

Originally posted on Heartland College Sports
By Bryan Clinton | Last updated May 20, 2025 1:10 PM ET

For the first time since 2018, the Oklahoma State Cowgirls will have to watch the Super Regional round from home after their 2025 season came to an end in Fayetteville this past weekend.

After a decisive 12-0 loss to the host team, No. 4 Arkansas, the Pokes’ final record sits at 35-20, and their streak of Women’s College World Series appearances will come to an end at five years running.

It was a tough season for Kenny Gajewski’s squad, and if the 48 hours following their elimination from the postseason are any indication, there’s likely a hard reset coming to Stillwater in 2026.

At least two key contributors from the last few seasons will be gone, as both Tallen Edwards and Micaela Wark have announced their intentions to enter the transfer portal on X.

pic.twitter.com/CqtSryR9H1
— Tallen Edwards (@EdwardsTallen) May 20, 2025

Edwards spent three seasons in Stillwater and locked down the hot corner for the Pokes, and played a significant role at the plate as well, maintaining a .304 batting average with 111 runs scored and 74 RBI.

Thank you Oklahoma State for the past 3 I’m beyond grateful for my time at OSU and all of the people who supported me! Stillwater will forever hold a place in my heart

I am entering the transfer portal with 1 year of eligibility (graduating in August) pic.twitter.com/3JvDYwrTsq
— Micaela Wark (@micaela_wark) May 20, 2025

Meanwhile, Wark transferred from Kansas to Oklahoma State after the 2023 season and was a key part of the Cowgirls lineup as the designated player. Over the last two seasons, Wark hit .283 with 29 home runs and 99 RBI.

In addition to the loss of Edwards and Wark, Gajewski will have to deal with the loss of role player, Taylor Anderson, and coveted freshman Tara Vandewater, who was a top-ten prospect in the 2025 class.

The Pokes do appear to have Ruby Meylan coming back in 2026, but they’ll need to replace some key pieces around her if they want to return to Oklahoma City next season.

This article first appeared on Heartland College Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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