LSU softball adds OU pitcher weeks after losing ace to Sooners

By Ainsley Flood, Reveille Sports Editor

July 29, 2025

LSU softball players hug after LSU’s 4-1 win over Kentucky on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Tiger Park in Baton Rouge, La.

LSU softball is building its pitching staff with new Oklahoma transfer Paytn Monticelli after losing the team’s ace to OU in June.

The 6-foot-1-inch senior is using her final year of eligibility with the Tigers, Monticelli announced on Monday. The move follows the transfer of LSU star pitcher Sydney Berzon to OU after the Tigers’ disappointing postseason run.

After transferring from Wisconsin, the right-handed pitcher won the 2024 national championship with the Sooners and even threw in the final game of the College World Series.

In 2025, Monticelli pitched 21.1 innings with 20 strikeouts and an ERA of 3.94.

Monticelli entered the portal late this summer and posted to X on Monday afternoon to confirm her commitment to LSU.

Callin’ Baton Rouge

@LSUsoftball pic.twitter.com/lLCaleyhsF

— Paytn Monticelli (@PaytnMonticelli) July 28, 2025

The Tigers and head coach Beth Torina will be looking to fill the hole left by their ace for the 2026 season. With three seasons and a national championship under her belt, Monticelli could be a top prospect.

In her collegiate career, she has represented Great Britain on the international stage in both the U22 European Championships and the WBSC World Cup.

With a ninth-place finish in the SEC and an NCAA Regional exit, the Tigers will aim for a better result next season. This may mean bringing in more veteran players to the LSU roster, especially after the heavy-hitting impact of losing a top arm.

About the Contributors

Ainsley Flood, Reveille Sports Editor

Why did you join the Reveille?

During my freshman year, I tried my hand at reporting in my media writing class and rediscovered my love for writing. Plus, I always admired the tight-knit community within student media.

What positions have you held at the Reveille?

I was a sports reporter for two semesters, the deputy sports editor for a semester and now I’m the sports editor.

What’s your favorite thing about working at the Reveille?

All of the people I meet! Everyone from coworkers in the newsroom to athletes on the sidelines.

What’s your favorite story that you’ve worked on so far?

My first A1 about “Mike’s Maniacs” will always hold a special place in my heart – just a fun story to write.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

Media relations! Preferably in soccer or motorsports.

Payton Prichard, Reveille Multimedia Editor

Why did you join the Reveille?

I joined to have a creative outlet and explore sides of photography I never had before. I’m glad I did because I found my passion (and changed my major to Journalism).

What positions have you held at the Reveille?

I was a photographer for one year and I’m now the Multimedia Editor!

What’s your favorite thing about working at the Reveille?

Traveling with our Sports staff for away games. Not only have I gotten to make lasting friendships with my coworkers, I’ve also had the chance to see an LSU championship or two!

What’s your favorite story that you’ve worked on so far?

My favorite assignment was when I covered the 2025 Men’s College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska. I was there for a little shy of two weeks and had the chance to shoot eight strong teams fighting for a championship title. I’m very proud of the content I produced from my time there and very happy the Tigers finished on top!

What do you hope to do after graduation?

If I get my way, I’ll be a Creative Content Producer or Team Photographer for a National Hockey League (NHL) team! Traveling with the Carolina Hurricanes or the New Jersey Devils for a literal job would be a dream come true.