A standout player on the University of Washington softball team from 2017-21, Ceres High School grad Nicole “Sis” Bates returned to Seattle on April 21 to throw out the first pitch at the Mariners-Athletics Major League Baseball game.

Bates made a special appearance at T-Mobile Park to promote a sport she’s dedicated two-plus decades of her life to. The three-time NCAA Division-I All-American middle infielder was interviewed by Mariners Radio Network play-by-play announcer Aaron Goldsmith during the second inning.

She also posed for a picture with Seattle shortstop J.P. Crawford.

Crawford signed a baseball for Bates.

“I never thought opportunities like this would come around so what a blessing to be in a role where we can influence young ladies to know that they can do this to,” said Bates, 28.

“I’m excited for the future of our sport,” she added.

Bates will be returning to the Pacific Northwest this summer to play professional softball.

She will suit up for the Portland Cascade, the newest expansion franchise of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League.

The Oregon-based team selected Bates in the AUSL Expansion Draft on Dec. 8.

“I feel like the luckiest human that’s ever existed to be here and to help share a sport that has given me so much,” Bates stated. “I get emotional when I think about being a little girl and being in the stands and being able to see what our league is doing. It’s inspiring the next generation.”

Bates brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Cascade.

She completed her fifth season of pro softball this past summer.

Drafted to the Texas Volts for the AUSL’s inaugural season, Bates collected eight hits, three RBIs, five runs and four walks in 20 games.

The Cascade will open the 2026 season on June 9.