DENVER — The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) released its 2026 Division II Player and Pitcher of the Year watch list this week, and Cheyenne Prieto is representing MSU Denver Athletics as the program's lone selection.

Prieto is one of six players from the RMAC to earn a spot on the prestigious list, which features 118 standout student-athletes from across the country. Her inclusion underscores a dominant season at the plate and her emergence as one of the top offensive threats in Division II softball.

Through MSU Denver's first 34 games, Prieto has been nothing short of elite. She currently leads the RMAC in batting average (.551), on-base percentage (.646), and OPS (1.511), while ranking second in slugging percentage (.865). She also sits among the conference leaders in several other key categories, including fifth in hits (49), ninth in RBIs (33), seventh in home runs (6), and third in walks (24).

Prieto's consistent production has been a driving force behind the Roadrunners' success this season. MSU Denver holds a 24-10 overall record and is 17-7 in RMAC play, positioning itself fourth in the conference standings as the postseason race begins to take shape.

As the season progresses, Prieto's name on the NFCA watch list will be one to follow closely, with her performance continuing to elevate both her individual recognition and the Roadrunners' push toward a strong finish in conference play.