Jessi Warren: A New Chapter in Softball

After two and a half years of representing the Red, White, and Blue, infielder Jessi Warren is stepping away from USA Softball and the international game. Announced through a heartfelt post on her personal Instagram account, she made it clear that her professional career is heading in a new direction, requiring her full attention as she joins the Oklahoma City Spark in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

A Heartfelt Departure

In her announcement, Warren stated, “As we enter 2026 and my playing career enters a new chapter, I guess this would be a good time to announce my international retirement with USA Softball. The last two and a half years with USA Softball have been nothing short of amazing, and representing my country has been a dream come true.” Her gratitude towards USA Softball and head coach Heather Tarr shines through, demonstrating the emotional weight of her decision.

Warren reminisced about the honor of wearing the national jersey, acknowledging not just the personal significance but also the camaraderie she shared with her teammates. “I’m proud of what this chapter gave me, proud of the women I stood beside, and grateful for the trust placed in me,” she remarked.

A Stellar International Career

Warren kicked off her tenure with the U.S. Women’s National Team in 2024, marking an impressive start by helping the Eagles secure a silver medal at the WBSC World Cup Finals. Her impact was immediate—leading the team’s offense with an impressive .444 batting average and six RBIs, which earned her a place on the All-World Team.

Following this success, Warren was recognized as a semi-finalist for the AAU James E. Team, an accolade that honors outstanding U.S. athletes for their excellence in competition, leadership, character, and sportsmanship. Most recently, she played an essential role in the Eagles’ undefeated gold medal run at The World Games 2025, continuing to showcase her skills and determination on the field.

Transition to Professional League

As Warren moves away from international play, her professional career in the sport is just beginning to heat up. Since joining the USSSA Pride in 2018, she has become a dependable figure in professional softball, making her mark in the Athletes Unlimited league since 2020. This past summer, while playing for the Volts, she earned a spot on the AUSL All-Defensive Team, batting .311 with 19 hits, including two doubles, a triple, and three home runs. Her aggressive play also saw her tie for fifth in the league for being hit by a pitch multiple times, underlining her commitment to the game.

Warren’s recent drafting to the Oklahoma City Spark positions her at the forefront of a new opportunity in the league. With aspirations to lead her new team through their inaugural season, she looks forward to contributing her wealth of experience and competitive spirit.

Looking Ahead

While her journey with the U.S. National Team has concluded, Warren remains optimistic about her future endeavors in the sport. “Although I won’t be representing this amazing country in 2028, those dreams aren’t gone, just reimagined,” she stated. This sentiment encapsulates her dedication to the game, highlighting her eagerness to support her friends and former teammates from the stands.

Jessi Warren’s remarkable athletic journey thus far illustrates her perseverance, skill, and passion for softball. As she embarks on this new chapter with the Oklahoma City Spark, her fans and fellow athletes alike will surely be eager to follow her in this next stage of her exciting career.