rush as transfer

As a sophomore, you could face some challenges that are different from the average incoming freshman, but finding your fit is not impossible. Each sorority assesses PNMs differently and some may be more open to sophomores based on PC sizes.
My best friend rushed as a sophomore this past year and seemed to generally face the same struggles as most other PNMs. In the end, she was given a bid by a great sorority and has had an amazing experience.

Two other things I will address:
As a transfer, it could be harder because there are some sophomores who are granted bids because they have made connections with girls in their freshman year.
No, you will not be left with the "bottom tier" sororities (if you buy into that or find it important). For one thing, rank is subjective and depends on who you talk to. And second, the organization my friend is now a member of is one that has been deemed an "upper tier" by the rankings on this website.

Keep an open mind, get your recs in and you should get a bid somewhere