Texas Tech Makes Game-Changing Addition with All-American Catcher Jazzy Burns from Ohio State

The Texas Tech softball program has just made a seismic shift. With the recent acquisition of power-hitting catcher Jazzy Burns from Ohio State, the Red Raiders may have found the missing piece to transform their postseason fate—and possibly the entire program’s future.

Burns, a first-team All-American and one of the most feared hitters in college softball, officially announced her transfer to Texas Tech this week. Known for her explosive bat and leadership behind the plate, Burns instantly elevates the Red Raiders into serious contention in the Big 12 and beyond. It’s not just a transfer—it’s a statement.

A native of Southern California, Jazzy Burns emerged as a collegiate superstar at Ohio State over the past two seasons. As a sophomore, she led the Buckeyes in nearly every offensive category, boasting a .392 batting average, 21 home runs, and 64 RBIs—numbers that earned her national recognition and unanimous first-team All-American honors. Beyond the stats, her aggressive approach, clutch performances, and high softball IQ turned her into one of the most respected players in the nation.

Burns also earned Big Ten Player of the Year honors in 2025, solidifying her position as one of the country’s elite catchers. But after two successful seasons in Columbus, she entered the transfer portal, citing a desire for a new environment, new challenges, and a different level of competition.

It didn’t take long for Texas Tech head coach Craig Snider to recognize the opportunity. Known for his player-first coaching style and sharp recruiting instincts, Snider made Burns his top priority this offseason—and now the payoff is monumental.

Jazzy is a generational talent,” Snider said in a statement. “What she brings to the table—both offensively and defensively—is unmatched. Her ability to change the momentum of a game with a single swing, combined with her leadership and toughness, makes her an absolute game-changer for our team.”

Indeed, Tech has struggled with consistency at the plate and behind the dish in recent seasons. While the Red Raiders have shown flashes of potential under Snider’s leadership, they’ve lacked the elite-level star power needed to break into the upper tier of the Big 12. That changes now.

Burns will bring not only power and precision at the plate but also defensive command that few catchers can match. Her presence alone will likely elevate the performance of Tech’s pitching staff, which has shown promise but often lacked consistency in tight moments.

The impact of Burns’ arrival extends beyond the stat sheet. Her work ethic, locker room presence, and competitive edge could help usher in a new era in Lubbock. For a program that hasn’t reached the Women’s College World Series since its inception, Burns’ leadership could be the spark that finally pushes Texas Tech into that rarefied air.

Softball analysts around the country have taken notice. ESPN’s softball insider Amanda Scarborough called Burns “one of the most impactful transfers of the decade” and added, “If there’s a player who can change the narrative of a program overnight, it’s Jazzy Burns.”

With powerhouse programs like Oklahoma and Texas dominating the Big 12 for years, Tech has often been seen as a step behind. Burns’ transfer shifts that perception. Paired with rising stars in the infield and a solid returning outfield, the Red Raiders suddenly look like a team ready to contend not just in conference play—but nationally.

Burns is expected to take on an immediate leadership role with her new team, and her transition into the Big 12 should be seamless. She’s already familiar with high-pressure moments and elite-level pitching, and she’s known for her quick adjustments and relentless preparation.

Texas Tech fans are already buzzing with excitement. Social media erupted following Burns’ announcement, with fans and alumni welcoming her with open arms. The program’s official account posted a hype video of Burns’ home runs and threw out the tagline: “New Era. Same Mission. Let’s Dance.”