By Alex Day
The LSU Tigers baseball team, known for their powerhouse performances, are gearing up for what promises to be an exhilarating 2025 season. After a less-than-stellar 2024 campaign where they missed the opportunity to defend their College World Series title, LSU is back with a vengeance, armed with new talent and the determination to reclaim their spot at the top of collegiate baseball.
A New Chapter Begins
The 2025 season kicks off February 14 at Alex Box Stadium, Skip Bertman Field, with LSU hosting Purdue Fort Wayne. This opening series sets the tone for what is expected to be a challenging, yet rewarding, season for the Tigers. The schedule is packed with 32 games against teams that participated in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, including six games against clubs that made it to the College World Series, showcasing the high level of competition LSU will face.
Roster Reloaded
Post-2024, LSU hit the transfer portal hard, signing a record-breaking nine top-100 transfers, leading to Baseball America naming them the No. 1 transfer portal class. Key additions include Anthony Eyanson, a former UC-San Diego ace right-hander, and Daniel Dickinson, a standout middle infielder from Utah Valley. These transfers join a roster, already including stars like Jared Jones and Steven Milam, that also boasts a highly-touted freshmen class, aiming to replenish the depth and talent lost to the MLB draft.
Key Players to Watch
Jared Jones, returning after a solid sophomore season, is expected to lead the Tigers' hitting lineup. With a .301 batting average in 2024 and 28 home runs, Jones is a pivotal figure for LSU's offensive strategy.
William Schmidt, the No. 5 prospect in the 2024 class, brings his high school accolades and exceptional pitching skills to the LSU mound. His fastball, which has touched 99 mph, and his curveball, with its high spin rate, make him a potential ace for the 2025 rotation. LSU having a player of Schmidt's caliber not in the projected weekend rotation to start the year flexes how deep their pitching staff really is.
Anthony Eyanson and Zac Cowan are also transfer pitchers to watch. Both have shown significant potential and are expected to contribute heavily to the Tigers' pitching depth.
The Schedule
LSU's schedule is a testament to their ambition for 2025. Notable matchups include:
SEC Openers: The Tigers kick off SEC play at home against Missouri on March 14, followed by hosting other strong SEC teams like Mississippi State, Alabama, Tennessee, and Arkansas.
Road Challenges: LSU will travel to face new SEC members Texas and Oklahoma, alongside traditional powerhouses Auburn, Texas A&M, and South Carolina, testing their mettle away from home.
Tournaments: The Tigers will participate in the Frisco College Baseball Classic, facing Kansas State, Nebraska, and Sam Houston, providing early season challenges and opportunities to showcase their talent.
Expectations and Predictions
The LSU fanbase and analysts alike are cautiously optimistic. After a disappointing 2024, the Tigers are not just looking to bounce back; they're aiming to dominate. With a blend of seasoned players, top transfers, and promising freshmen, LSU has the ingredients for success. The team's performance will hinge on how quickly the new members gel with the existing squad, especially in pitching, where depth was a significant concern last year.
Expect LSU to be ranked high in preseason polls, with many predicting a return to the College World Series. However, the road to Omaha is never easy, and with a schedule as demanding as LSU's, every game will count.
Final Thoughts
As the 2025 season approaches, LSU baseball is at a pivotal moment. With a roster that combines experience, new talent, and a hunger for redemption, the Tigers are set to make a statement. For fans, players, and the LSU community, this season is not just about wins and losses, but about re-establishing LSU baseball as a dynasty. Keep an eye on Alex Box Stadium; the Tigers are ready to roar back into contention.
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