Texas Tech softball is once again expected to be active in the transfer portal as they load up for the 2027 season, but the portal works both ways, and they have lost several players. The biggest is pitcher Samantha Lincoln, who announced on Monday that she was entering the transfer portal after two seasons with the Lady Raiders.
“Thank you Lubbock and Red Raider nation. I’m grateful for my time at Texas Tech University. I have decided to enter the transfer portal. My name will be officially entered Wednesday,” she wrote on social media.
Lincoln served as Texas Tech’s No. 3 pitcher this season behind All-Americans Kaitlyn Terry and NiJaree Canady. She appeared in 25 games with 12 starts, posting a 3.47 ERA over 74 2/3 innings. Opponents hit .240 off her with 20 walks and 67 strikeouts.
The lefty was also a contributor as a freshman, throwing 72 innings over 27 appearances with 11 starts. She had a 3.50 ERA in 2025, with opponents hitting .236 off her with 21 walks and 56 strikeouts. Lincoln will have two seasons of eligibility at her next stop.
The Lady Raiders are now set to lose two of their top three pitchers, with Canady out of eligibility. While Terry has already announced she will be returning for her senior season, Texas Tech will likely be headed to the portal to find a proven pitcher to pair with her as they look to make another run for the national championship after falling just short in back-to-back years.
This article originally appeared on Red Raiders Wire: Texas Tech softball pitcher to enter transfer portal
Reporting by JD McCarthy, Red Raiders Wire / Red Raiders Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By JD McCarthy, Red Raiders Wire | USA TODAY Network
