The FSU softball team made its biggest addition through the transfer portal this offseason on Friday, securing a commitment from former Tennessee Volunteers infielder Ella Dodge.
She spent the past three seasons with the Lady Vols and will add some experience to a young roster that is looking to build on its 2026 season. She has improved each season and hit .285 with 13 doubles, 11 home runs, and 46 RBI last season.
Dodge has played in 120 games during her career, making 113 starts, and was ranked as one of the best players in the transfer portal. Softball America has ranked her as the No. 10 overall player and No. 4 middle infielder in the portal, giving her a 94.00 grade.
She is set to be one of just six upperclassmen on FSU’s roster for the 2027 season, three of whom are infielders. The Seminoles had a young roster last season, and they will once again be doing so in 2027 and will be counting on Dodge to provide some veteran leadership.
Here is what FSU fans need to know about Dodge.
She is returning home
Dodge is getting closer to home by transferring to FSU. She is originally from Bradenton, Florida, where she starred for Lakewood Ranch High School before heading to Tennessee. She led them to Florida 7A state titles in 2021 and 2022 and was named the FACA High School Player of the Year in 2022.
Ella Dodge can play multiple positions
FSU’s infield is going to look different next season after Jaysoni Beachum and Isa Torres both entered the transfer portal, freeing up starting spots at shortstop and third. Dodge started at third last season and spent the year before at second, giving head coach Lonni Alameda someone with game experience at multiple spots.
She has been to the Women’s College World Series
Tennessee has had plenty of success over the past two seasons, making back-to-back trips to the Women’s College World Series. Dodge saw plenty of action in Oklahoma City both years, playing in eight games across the two seasons. She was a combined 4-23 with one double in those games and is currently the only player on the team with experience at the WCWS.
She has multiple seasons of eligibility
Dodge is entering her redshirt junior season and has two seasons of eligibility remaining. She redshirted in 2024 before becoming a starter for Tennessee in 2025 and 2026. The option for her to spend two seasons in Tallahassee makes her an even more valuable addition for the Seminoles.
Ella Dodge is FSU’s second transfer
After not taking any transfers last season, the Seminoles are now up to two additions, and more could be in store. They started it with former Stetson first baseman Nicole Edmiaston, who provided some needed power to the lineup. Dodge adds some flexibility and helps round out the class.
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This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: Five things to know about FSU softball transfer Ella Dodge
Reporting by JD McCarthy, FSU Wire / FSU Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By JD McCarthy, FSU Wire | USA TODAY Network
