Kombo Chogugudza is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Pinnacle High School for AZPreps365.com

As the Pinnacle High School softball team closes the door on another competitive season, three seniors—Alexa Wilde, Payton Crank, and Kodi Crabtree—reflect on their journey. The trio has combined for over 70 wins during their varsity careers and continues to carry the momentum from last year’s playoff run.

The Pinnacle girls are currently 13-4 and the 6th-ranked team in all of 6A competition, riding an 8-game win streak before the playoffs. Payton Crank has led the team with 8 home runs, batting .417 with 29 RBIs. Kodi Crabtree ranks second in the Desert Valley Region in ERA at 2.11 and has tallied an impressive 96 strikeouts. Alexa Wilde has posted an OPS of .444 as the senior trio gears up for one last postseason run.

Lessons from last season

Pinnacle finished the 2024 season with an impressive 26-6 record, reaching the 6A state semifinals. Wilde emphasized how that experience shaped the team’s mindset heading into this season.

“Last season was extremely strong and gave us a lot of confidence,” Wilde said. “We learned a lot about grit and adversity, which has helped us push through injuries and unexpected challenges.”

Crabtree, who missed last season due to injury, shared how that experience has made her more eager to contribute this year.

“Because I didn’t get to play last season and I got hurt earlier this season, it’s built up my motivation to play even more now,” Crabtree said. “I want to help our team make it back to state and do whatever I can to contribute.”
With only three seniors on the roster, Wilde (Pitcher/Outfield), Crank (Outfield), and Crabtree (RHP/1B) have taken on important leadership roles.

“The three of us have played together since we were 10 years old, so finishing our high school careers together is really special,” Wilde said. “Leadership comes from more than just us—everyone has a role on this team, and knowing that role makes for a successful team.”

Crank added how much she has valued playing with her fellow seniors.

“Playing alongside Alexa and Kodi all these years has truly been a blessing,” she said.

Crabtree emphasized the importance of setting a positive example for younger players.

“A lot of the younger girls look up to us, so keeping them energized in the dugout and having a good attitude is really important,” she said.

Overcoming injury and staying motivated

Wilde, who suffered an injury last season, spoke about her recovery process and how she stayed engaged with the team during her time off.

“Recovery is never easy, but it’s made me a better player and person,” she said. “I made sure to be at every practice and game so I could still contribute in other ways.”

Playing for Pinnacle has been a defining experience.

“I grew up watching Pinnacle softball, dreaming of being part of this program,” Wilde said. “The competitiveness and environment have shaped me as a player.”

Crabtree reflected on how the team has given her lifelong friendships and valuable lessons in leadership.

“It’s brought me my best friends and taught me so much,” she said.

Individual standouts and season success

With the regular season coming to an end, Crabtree put together a dominant season on the mound with 94 strikeouts, ranking among the Desert Valley Region leaders.

“Having a strong drive to compete at the highest level definitely helps me stay composed on the mound,” she said.

Crank has emerged as one of the team’s top hitters, batting .417 with 8 home runs and 29 RBIs.

“I’ve worked a lot in the offseason to improve my swing and stay consistent at the plate,” Crank said.

Wilde is batting .231 on the year while contributing on the mound and in the outfield.

When asked about standout underclassmen, the three of them pointed to the depth of the team’s younger players.

“Our junior class is really strong,” Wilde said. “Sienna Caro, Bri Smith, Torynn Slaughter, and sophomore Lily Hamel are all high-level players making an impact.”

Crabtree and Crank also praised pitcher Paige Kroening for her contributions.
“She steps up to pitch whenever needed and always has a great attitude,” Crabtree said.

Most rewarding moments and looking ahead

When reflecting on the most rewarding part of their high school careers, they emphasized the relationships they’ve built.

“Overcoming injuries and making a deep playoff run last year were great, but the friendships and bonds from playing this sport are what matter most,” Wilde said.

For Crabtree, the support system within the team has made her experience unforgettable.

“The coaching staff is amazing, and just being around this team makes it so much fun,” she said.

Leaving a legacy

As their high school careers wind down and their future commitments to top college softball programs, Crank to Utah, Wilde to New Mexico, and Crabtree to Boise State, the seniors are focused on leaving a positive legacy.

“It’s bittersweet knowing this is my last season at Pinnacle,” Wilde said. “I’m excited and grateful to continue my career at New Mexico, but for now, we’re locked in on finishing the season strong.”

Crabtree hopes to be remembered for her commitment to the team.

“I want to help however I can by hitting, pitching, or just cheering on my teammates,” she said. “I want to be remembered as a good teammate with a great attitude.”

With strong leadership, experience, and a shared drive to finish what they started, Pinnacle softball’s seniors are locked in for one final run.