AKRON, Ohio - LSU softball coach Beth Torina, former All-American pitcher Brittany Mack and the USSSA Florida Pride has vaulted into sole possession of first place in the National Pro Fastpitch standings.

Starting with their series versus the Carolina Diamonds at Tiger Park on July 6, the Pride has won eight of its last 11 games to improve to 16-11 and grab a half-game lead over the Chicago Bandits.

Mack has won her last three outings to improve to 4-3 for the season. She has turned in consecutive complete games highlighted by a seven-strikeout effort during an 11-1 victory against the Akron Racers on July 21.

The Pride and Bandits meet in a four-game series this weekend in Florida. The 2012 NPF Championship series is set for August 23-26 in Rosemont, Ill.

LSU finished its inaugural season under Torina with a 40-25 record and made the program's third appearance at the Women's College World Series. It marked the 14th time in 16 seasons that the Tigers finished with at least 40 victories since softball was reinstated in 1997.

LSU is slated to return 14 letterwinners for the 2013 campaign sparked by NFCA First-Team All-American selection Rachele Fico along with All-SEC Freshman pick A.J. Andrews.

Fans can follow LSU softball on the program's social media outlets at www.Facebook.com/lsusoftball and @LSU_Softball on Twitter.