Ci’Ella Pickett: CBL MVP Ready to Ignite LSU Softball

Justin Broussard
Jun 14
4 min read

BATON ROUGE, La. – Ci’Ella Pickett, a standout infielder from Mentone, California, is poised to electrify Tiger Park as part of LSU softball’s 2026 roster, announced by head coach Beth Torina on 2024 Signing Day. At Cajon High School, Pickett earned Athlete of the Year, Citrus Belt League (CBL) MVP, and First Team CBL honors as a senior, alongside three-time CBL First Team selections over her career. She dominated her senior season, batting .585 with a .667 on-base percentage, 31 hits, 12 RBIs, 29 runs, a .925 slugging percentage, 13 walks, and just one strikeout, adding three home runs, seven doubles, one triple, and 11 stolen bases. With the Corona Angels club team, she hit .369 with 38 hits, four home runs, 34 RBIs, and 20 runs in 2024. Transitioning from high school shortstop to college third base, Pickett shared her ambitions, preparation, and lifelong love for LSU in an exclusive interview.

Ambitious Goals for a Freshman Phenom

Pickett is setting her sights high for her freshman year. “Some of my goals are to help the team make it to the World Series, start as a freshman, be a leader, make an ALL SEC/All Region Team,” she said. Her aspirations, backed by her CBL MVP performance, signal her intent to make an immediate impact in the SEC.

Preparing for the SEC Stage

To ready herself for college softball’s intensity, Pickett has been relentless. “Some things I have been doing is playing and training with my travel ball team Corona Angles and I have been doing strength, speed and agility training,” she explained. Her training complements her 2024 summer stats with the Corona Angels, where a .369 average and 34 RBIs showcased her readiness for LSU’s lineup.

A Gritty and Energetic Game

Pickett’s style of play is a blend of intensity and flair. “I would describe my game as gritty, passionate, aggressive, explosive and energetic,” she said. Her versatility as a high school shortstop and travel ball third baseman, paired with a 2021 Alliance National Championship with the Corona Angels, positions her to spark LSU’s infield and offense.

A Lifelong Love for LSU

Pickett’s connection to LSU began at age nine, rooted in a sense of belonging. “The main thing that drew me to LSU from such a young age was that it has always felt like home and the people were so kind and welcoming which also added to the homey feeling,” she shared. This bond aligns with the family atmosphere fostered by Coach Torina, whose program boasts four Women’s College World Series appearances.

Gratitude for a New Chapter

Reflecting on her high school career’s end, Pickett expressed appreciation. “I feel grateful and blessed for the opportunity to continue my career after HS because I know not everyone gets the opportunity to continue their career,” she said. Her senior year dominance—31 hits, .925 slugging, and just four strikeouts over her entire high school career, earning her Athlete of the Year and CBL MVP—sets a strong foundation for the SEC.

Awaiting Her Baton Rouge Arrival

Pickett has yet to visit campus since committing, but her excitement remains strong. “I have not been to campus since I’ve committed,” she noted. Her upcoming arrival at Tiger Park, home to LSU’s storied program, will mark the realization of a childhood dream.

Anchoring Third Base

While recent discussions with the coaching staff have been limited, Pickett knows her role. “We have not had a discussion recently, but the hope has been for me to come in and play 3B and of course contribute to the juggernaut of an offense that is already there,” she said. Moving from shortstop to third base, she’s poised to join stars like Tori Edwards and Maci Bergeron, supported by Coach Torina’s tight-knit culture.

The Edge of Playing Up

Pickett’s early experience against older players has shaped her competitive edge. “I started playing up in 8u and I feel this has benefited my preparation for the next level because it has taught me how to compete for a job and that softball knows no age was 6 playing 8u but since my birthday is in January I was always 1 year younger than everyone I was playing with,” she explained. Starting at age six against eight-year-olds, her 2021 Alliance National Championship with the Corona Angels prepared her for the SEC’s intensity.

A Bright Future in Purple and Gold

With a .585 senior batting average, .667 OBP, and one strikeout, plus a .369 average and 34 RBIs in 2024 with the Corona Angels, Pickett brings elite skills to LSU. Her Athlete of the Year, CBL MVP, three-time CBL First Team honors, and 41 career stolen bases highlight her versatility and dominance. Joining the 2026 signing class with Gradie Appling, Cali Deal, Rylie Johnson, Ashlin Mowery, and Lauryn Soeken, Pickett is ready to help LSU chase another Women’s College World Series berth.