Women’s Superior Softball League to operate with administrative autonomy

The Puerto Rico Women’s Superior Softball League will operate under an autonomous administrative structure endorsed by the Puerto Rico Softball Federation when it opens a new season on May 17. “My vision is to position the Women’s Superior Softball League as the premier women’s league in Puerto Rico,” said Jeanc Rodríguez, center, chairman of the league’s board of directors.

By THE STAR STAFF

The Puerto Rico Women’s Superior Softball League will operate the 2026 season under an autonomous administrative structure endorsed by the Puerto Rico Softball Federation following a reorganization initiated last August, it was revealed this week.

“My vision is to position the Women’s Superior Softball League as the premier women’s league in Puerto Rico,” said Jeanc Rodríguez, chairman of the league’s board of directors, in a written statement. “I will strive for it to be recognized for its competitive balance and media presence.”

Rodríguez was selected as general manager in December 2025 and assumed the leadership of the league’s governing body in January 2026. The board also includes Dr. Iván Rivera as vice president, Alex Javier Ramos as treasurer, Yaitza López as secretary, and board members César Hernández and Manuel Vega.

Federation President Tommy Velázquez spearheaded the reorganization along with six team owners who began meeting last August to establish the new administrative structure.

For the 2026 season, several competitive changes were approved, including authorization to sign up to three reinforcement players per team. Athletes called up by the federation for international tournaments may be replaced during their absence. The draft for new players will be held on March 18 and will be limited to players participating in national team selection processes.

The schedule will run from Wednesday to Sunday. From Wednesday to Friday, there will be single games of seven innings. Doubleheaders of six innings per game will be played on Saturdays and Sundays. In the postseason, all games will be single games. Teams will broadcast their home games on digital platforms.

The season will begin on May 17 with the Valencianas of Juncos visiting the defending champion Bravas of Cidra. The league’s nine teams will be divided into three sections named after Ivelisse Echevarría, Clara Vázquez and Betty Segarra.

“For me, it’s important to recognize these players who paved the way to where we are today,” Rodríguez added. “Our national team is currently ranked third in the world, and I hope these players can see action on their home island.”