
Sara McNelly’s value is speed, opportunism, and high-impact depth for Virginia Tech
Sara McNelly has carved out a useful role for Virginia Tech as a disruptive runner and versatile outfield depth piece, with 2025 showing 26 appearances mostly as a pinch runner and 2026 opening with a stronger .298 average through 23 games. Her game isn’t built on loud power; it’s built on speed, smart situational value, and a knack for turning small opportunities into runs. She came in as a proven contact hitter and award-winning defensive outfielder in high school, which fits a team that wants energy, athleticism, and late-game flexibility.