LSU Softball Fall Wrap-Up: Depth Emerges as Newcomers Make Their Mark

LSU didn’t enter the transfer portal looking to overhaul its roster, but what the Tigers added was evident throughout fall ball. While it’s important to remember this was fall competition — not SEC weekends — the fall provided a useful barometer for what LSU’s newcomers bring and how the roster is shaping up heading into February.

Within that context, there was plenty to like.

Destiny Harris Homerun Celebration

Transfer Bats Make an Early Statement

One of the most noticeable takeaways from fall scrimmages was the offensive presence of Mississippi State transfer Kylee Edwards and Louisville transfer Char Lorenz. Both consistently showed power and strong barrel control, and each looks capable of being a middle-of-the-order run producer. It wouldn’t be surprising to see both of these ladies' factor heavily into LSU’s power numbers this season.

Following the departure of Danieca Coffey, LSU added Ally Hutchins from Kentucky, and her offensive approach stood out immediately. Hutchins brings patience and power, giving the Tigers a disciplined bat that can impact games in multiple ways, whether in the field or as the designated player.

New Arms Bring Command and Options in the Circle

In the circle, LSU added CeCe Cellura from San Diego State and Paytn Monticelli from Oklahoma, with Monticelli arriving as a late but impactful addition. Both pitchers were impressive throughout the fall and stood out for their command — an area that proved inconsistent at times last season.

With those additions, LSU appears to be building a deeper and more reliable pitching staff, giving the Tigers flexibility rather than forcing innings onto a small group.

Freshmen Waste No Time Making Noise

The freshman class showed early that it won’t be content waiting its turn. Utility player Ci’ella Pickett consistently showed loud contact, launching multiple home runs and quickly establishing herself as one of the more intriguing newcomers on the roster.

At the plate, Rylie Johnson and Gradie Jackson also stood out, with Jackson frequently driving in her roommate Johnson during fall action. Their early chemistry and production were noticeable and added another layer of depth to the lineup.

In the circle, freshmen Cali Deal, Lauryn Soeken, and Ashlin Mowery all looked as advertised. Each showed flashes of why they were highly regarded additions, with Mowery having moments that stood out and could position her for a meaningful role early. How this trio fits into the larger pitching picture will be one of the most interesting storylines to follow as the season approaches.

Returning Core and Depth Elevate the Ceiling

The core of LSU's returning team continues to be the foundation of this roster, with several well-known players showing potential for further development. Tori Edwards appears ready to enhance her already remarkable freshman season, while Jayden Heavener maintains her status as one of the nation's most talented pitchers. Heavener's freshman statistics were remarkable, and any improvements in reducing walks only increase her potential. Both athletes were also involved in Nike's announcement of their Blue-Ribbon Athlete NIL program, exclusively with LSU Athletics.

Exciting moments throughout the fall hinted that Maci Bergeron and Jalia Lassiter are poised for another season of impressive leaps in production! Along with Heavener and Edwards these two phenomenal players will make up the backbone of this team that welcomes a bevy of new talent and look to take that next step of post season play.

Alix Franklin was another player who consistently impressed during fall action. Her power translated throughout the fall, and she looked comfortable defensively, giving LSU a strong option on the left side of the infield. Along with Ally Hutchins, Franklin gives the Tigers flexibility at third base and the designated player spot. Both bring legitimate power, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see those roles shift throughout the season as the staff rides the hot bat.

Just as important is the experienced depth LSU brings back. Sierra Daniel, Avery Hodge, Maddox McKee, and Jadyn Laneaux all return with starting-level experience, giving the Tigers flexibility across the field. Another sophomore I have my eye on to have more of a role this year is sophomore Destiny Harris who looked really good showing elite base running and some dynamic at bats. Their presence allows LSU to mix and match lineups, manage workloads, and navigate the long SEC season without sacrificing production.

Final Thoughts

It’s worth reiterating that fall ball is exactly that — fall ball. These games aren’t played against SEC opponents, and nothing is decided in November. But they do offer a glimpse of what’s coming, and this LSU team showed plenty to be encouraged about.

This shapes up as one of Beth Torina’s deepest and most talented rosters in recent years. With added command in the circle, a healthy Tatum Clopton, the continued emergence of Heavener, and an influx of impact newcomers, LSU appears to have the pieces to make a real run.

There’s still a long way to go before anything meaningful is decided, but if development continues and the depth holds, this group has the look of a team capable of playing deep into June — something LSU fans have been waiting to see again since 2017.