Stanford softball transfer NiJaree Canady inks NIL deal with MLB PlayBall Weekend

NiJaree Canady is the biggest name in softball at the moment.

The 2024 USA Softball Player of the Year led Stanford to the Women’s College World Series. Viewed as one of the top pitchers in the sport, she finished the season with a 0.73 ERA and 337 strikeouts over 230.2 total innings.

Earlier this week, Canady delivered stunning news to the collegiate softball world: She decided to enter the transfer portal on the final day it was open. The decision comes a year after Oklahoma pitcher Jordy Bahl decided to enter, leaving Norman for Nebraska. In football and basketball, top players entering free agency have become common.

Ahead of her decision to test the portal waters, Canady inked an NIL deal with MLB PlayBall Weekend. Repped by the softball-driven Players Collxctive agency, the Stanford star traveled to New York City to participate in the event with MLB.