Beth Torina Named to D1Softball Quarter Century Team as LSU Opens Fall Slate in Mobile with Roster Preview

As LSU Softball heads to Mobile, Alabama, to open its fall slate, the Tigers do so under the leadership of one of the sport’s most accomplished and enduring figures. Head coach Beth Torina was recently named to D1Softball’s Quarter Century Team, recognizing her as one of the top coaches of the past 25 years — a nod to both her longevity and her continued impact on the college game.

Torina enters her 15th season at LSU in 2026 with an all-time coaching record of 710–365 over 18 seasons. She has compiled a 581–254 record in Baton Rouge, making her the winningest coach in program history and the only active LSU coach with more than 500 victories. Before arriving at LSU, Torina built Florida International into a Sun Belt contender, earning two Conference Coach of the Year honors and a 129–111 record across four seasons.

Since taking over the Tigers, Torina has led the program to two 50-win seasons, eight 40-win campaigns, and four Women’s College World Series appearances (2012, 2015–2017). That early success set a high bar — and as each season has passed without a return to Oklahoma City, the longing among the fan base has grown louder. Yet, the respect for Torina’s consistent standard remains clear. LSU continues to recruit and develop at an elite level, and this fall may represent the most talented and balanced roster she’s assembled since that 2017 WCWS team.

Depth and Competition Highlight Fall Camp

From everything heard out of fall camp, competition is fierce, particularly on the left side of the field — where shortstop, third base, and left field remain tightly contested. The roster’s overall depth has pushed practices to a higher level, creating what several close to the program have called “the most competitive fall in recent memory.”

Among the biggest freshmen standouts so far are Rylie Johnson (OF), Ciella Pickett (Utility), and Cali Deal (P) — each quickly turning heads with their athleticism and maturity.

“The transfer class has already generated plenty of buzz" — as one of my pieces from LSU Daily details how the portal haul has raised expectations for immediate contributions both offensively and defensively.”

The transfer group has also delivered as advertised. One of last season's transfers is ready to make herself a household name, Jalia Lassiter, who arrived from Ole Miss last offseason, is coming off her best statistical year and looks primed to elevate again. Alix Franklin, a former state champion from St. Amant known for her explosive bat, has reportedly expanded her defensive versatility — seeing time not just at her natural third base, but also in the outfield. Her adaptability and offensive arsenal make her one to watch this fall.

One of my favorite pieces to date was the above article with Alix Franklin last season entering her freshman season

And then there’s the foundation of experience. Seniors Maci Bergeron and Avery Hodges bring steady leadership and dynamic playmaking ability, providing the balance needed for a team blending seasoned veterans with eager newcomers.

A Season of Expectation and Opportunity

With depth across every position, a veteran core, and young talent pushing daily for roles, this LSU team appears built to contend. Torina’s D1Softball honor underscores her legacy, but it also arrives at a time when her program may be on the verge of another breakthrough.

The Tigers’ mix of experience, power, and competition has created a palpable energy in Baton Rouge — one that feels reminiscent of the championship-caliber seasons that defined Torina’s early years. If this group continues to progress through the fall as expected, the road back to Oklahoma City may once again run through LSU.