speedy, high-IQ middle infielder with defensive pop
Rio Mendez entered the 2026 season as a sophomore infielder for Utah after appearing in 31 games in 2025, scoring 10 runs and earning her first career hit in a Feb. 27 win over Utah Tech; her profile is built less on raw power and more on athletic middle-infield defense, speed, and game IQ. Utah’s staff has described her as a player who “plays the game big,” thrives on tough, creative plays, and brings a strong work ethic and high baseball IQ. She also carried strong pre-college credentials, including All-American Watch List recognition and a defensive-player-of-the-year award.
