LSU Softball has made a habit of getting key players out of the state of Georgia in recent years and this year is no different. The Tigers added their second 2025 commitment since the contact period with 2025 players. This time around it was elite middle infielder Gradie Appling out of Tattnall Square Academy in Macon, GA. She plays her travel ball with GA Impact Premier-Maher. She took some time to discuss why LSU, Childhood dreams of being a Tiger and more.
Gradie Appling
Tattnall Square Academy
GA Impact Premier-Maher
Macon, GA
Class of 2025 Middle Infielder
Ranked No.24 Overall by ExtraInnings
.462 BA /.565 OBP /1.508 OPS / .943 SLG / 12 hrs /52 runs scored.
2x All-State (Freshman & Sophomore Seasons)
2x All-region (Freshman & Sophomore Seasons)
Broke her HS home run record as a freshman.
GHSA 1A private POY as a freshman
Holds her HS career home run record at 31 (previously was 29) Only a Junior
Gradie on why she chose LSU "I fell in love with LSU at an early age! As long as can remember I’ve loved watching LSU play! The environment and people there are like no other! " Being a girl from Georgia I asked what drew her to LSU at such a young age and she replied " At first, I fell in love with LSU because my hometown school colors were purple and gold (I was like in the 6th grade at the time) , so I wanted to continue to wear purple and gold in college! As I got a little older, I started watching college softball and I wanted to be just like Aliyah Andrews! "
She discussed her relationship with the coaching staff stating "I have a very strong bond with the coaches. They welcomed me with open arms, and it felt like family! As soon as I got there it felt like home! I’m so comfortable around them and they wanted me as much as I wanted to be a part of the TIGERS!" On where the staff sees her playing "MIF, but I can play anywhere that’ll benefit the team! " What programs did LSU have to beat out for her commitment "Clemson, Duke, NC state, Georgia Tech, and Ole Miss."
I asked her to describe her strongest attributes and she replied " I would say I’m explosive, have power, and I have quick hands! Also, I am confident when I step in the box! I’m constantly working to get better because there’s always room for improvement! " Gradie is an all-around athlete as she also played basketball as a freshman and continues running track. She stated " I Lead my team to state last season in the 4x100 (Placing 7th). I participate in long jump, 4x100 and 4x400. "
On if she had gotten close with any of the recruits she replied, "I haven’t bonded with any 2025 commits yet, but I look forward to playing with Savanna (Bedell), Mckaela (Walker), and Jadyn (Laneaux) because they’re all from my home state!" What does she enjoy doing when she is not playing sports or practicing " She stated "Playing with my dog Dallas and going on dinner dates with my friends! " She has a message to LSU fans on what to expect from her when she gets here" I want LSU fans to know that I’ll be bringing a lot of energy, good vibes, I’ll be a leader, I’ll always stick beside my teammates, and a huge personality! "
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