No. 3 Arkansas. vs. No. 6 LSU. One epic showdown — just days away…
The 2025 LSU Tigers baseball team entered the season with soaring expectations, anchored by a roster brimming with talent and experience. Under the steady leadership of head coach Jay Johnson, now in his fourth year, LSU stood determined to rekindle its storied tradition of excellence and compete at the highest level in one of college baseball’s most fiercely contested conferences, the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Season Overview
LSU entered the 2025 season with high expectations, bolstered by a top-ranked recruiting class and a roster featuring a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers. The Tigers opened the season with a commanding sweep of Purdue Fort Wayne, setting the tone for a campaign marked by consistent performances and strategic victories.
Throughout the regular season, LSU maintained a strong record, demonstrating prowess both at the plate and on the mound. Their efforts secured them the No. 6 national seed and a home-field advantage in the Super Regional, where they faced West Virginia.
Key Players and Performances
- Chase Shores (RHP): After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023 and missing the entire 2024 season, redshirt sophomore Chase Shores made a remarkable comeback. Transitioning from a starting role to the bullpen, Shores delivered a standout performance in the Super Regional against West Virginia, pitching 1⅓ perfect innings with three strikeouts and fastballs reaching up to 101 mph. His resilience and dominance have been pivotal to LSU’s postseason success.
- Jared Jones (1B): A junior powerhouse, Jones has been a cornerstone of LSU’s offense. In the previous season, he posted a .301 batting average with 28 home runs and 59 RBIs. His consistent performance and leadership have been instrumental in the Tigers’ offensive strategy.
- Daniel Dickinson (2B): A transfer from Utah Valley, Dickinson brought a .363 batting average, 18 home runs, and 53 RBIs to LSU. His immediate impact and versatility have strengthened the Tigers’ infield and batting lineup.
- Kade Anderson (LHP): Serving as LSU’s Friday night starter, Anderson has been a reliable force on the mound. Notably, he achieved a complete game shutout against Oklahoma, marking LSU’s first since 2018.
Coaching and Strategy
Coach Johnson has continued to build upon the program’s storied legacy. His strategic acumen and emphasis on player development have been evident throughout the season. Johnson’s ability to adapt, such as transitioning Shores to a bullpen role, underscores his commitment to maximizing the team’s potential.
Looking Ahead
As the Tigers prepare for their College World Series matchup against SEC rival Arkansas, the team’s blend of grit and talent positions them as strong contenders for their eighth national title. With a roster that has overcome adversity and demonstrated consistent excellence, LSU’s 2025 season stands as a testament to their enduring legacy in college baseball.