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Baseball Preview 2026 Edition (Feb 10th - Pro Prospects and SEC Predictions)
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:22 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:22 am
February. Is. Here.
-As always everything in this preview is "my" opinion and analysis, I want to welcome everyone’s opinions, thoughts, and criticism, as this is a message board and it's what makes this place great...but please keep it baseball related. In year 19 now this preview is for those friends, family, and alumni who follow the sport however may not be able to see the team early in spring and want to get a better feel for who’s – who.
-The lineup I predict is not only based on what I have seen thus far but how I see the respective positions shaping up throughout the entire regular season.
-The MLB uses a 20-80 grading scale to evaluate each draft eligible player based on their skillset of 1) Power 2) Hitting 3) Speed 4) Fielding 5) Arm. Now because 60-70% of all MLB draft eligible prospects fall into the below-average to average skill set it’s not much to look at when previewing a standard collegiate team. To give viewers a better representation of how they stack up on the collegiate level what I’ve done the past few years is grade each player based on their current tools as they compare to other players at the collegiate level. What this does is expand the bell curve a bit and give a better representation of their respective strengths and weaknesses now rather than a projection for a MLB position.
-At the end of each position is a final overall grade based on the entire unit as a whole. It's essentially a combination of the talent/depth/intangibles etc...compared to other similar collegiate baseball positions.
Feb 1 - C - Cade Arrambide
Feb 2 - 1B - Zach Yorke
Feb 3 - 2B - Seth Dardar
Feb 4 - SS - Steven Milam
Feb 5 - 3B - Trent Caraway
Feb 6 - OF - Chris Stanfield LF, Derek Curiel CF, Jake Brown RF
Feb 7 - DH - Brayden Simpson
Feb 8 - SP - Casan Evans, Cooper Moore, Cooper Williams
Feb 9 - RP - William Schmidt, Jaden Noot, Zac Cowan
Feb 10 - Pro Prospects and Projected SEC standings
Grade Breakdown for Starter
80 Top of the Scale (Think Kris Bryant, USD – 2013 “power”)
70 Well Above Average
60 Above Average
50 Average
40 Below Average
30 Well Below Average
20 Bottom of the Scale (Think Matt Gaudet, LSU - 2010 “speed”)
Grade Breakdown for Overall Position Group
80 Top of the Scale (Think Rice Starting Pitching - 2003)
70 Well Above Average
60 Above Average
50 Average
40 Below Average
30 Well Below Average
20 Bottom of the Scale
-As always everything in this preview is "my" opinion and analysis, I want to welcome everyone’s opinions, thoughts, and criticism, as this is a message board and it's what makes this place great...but please keep it baseball related. In year 19 now this preview is for those friends, family, and alumni who follow the sport however may not be able to see the team early in spring and want to get a better feel for who’s – who.
-The lineup I predict is not only based on what I have seen thus far but how I see the respective positions shaping up throughout the entire regular season.
-The MLB uses a 20-80 grading scale to evaluate each draft eligible player based on their skillset of 1) Power 2) Hitting 3) Speed 4) Fielding 5) Arm. Now because 60-70% of all MLB draft eligible prospects fall into the below-average to average skill set it’s not much to look at when previewing a standard collegiate team. To give viewers a better representation of how they stack up on the collegiate level what I’ve done the past few years is grade each player based on their current tools as they compare to other players at the collegiate level. What this does is expand the bell curve a bit and give a better representation of their respective strengths and weaknesses now rather than a projection for a MLB position.
-At the end of each position is a final overall grade based on the entire unit as a whole. It's essentially a combination of the talent/depth/intangibles etc...compared to other similar collegiate baseball positions.
Feb 1 - C - Cade Arrambide
Feb 2 - 1B - Zach Yorke
Feb 3 - 2B - Seth Dardar
Feb 4 - SS - Steven Milam
Feb 5 - 3B - Trent Caraway
Feb 6 - OF - Chris Stanfield LF, Derek Curiel CF, Jake Brown RF
Feb 7 - DH - Brayden Simpson
Feb 8 - SP - Casan Evans, Cooper Moore, Cooper Williams
Feb 9 - RP - William Schmidt, Jaden Noot, Zac Cowan
Feb 10 - Pro Prospects and Projected SEC standings
Grade Breakdown for Starter
80 Top of the Scale (Think Kris Bryant, USD – 2013 “power”)
70 Well Above Average
60 Above Average
50 Average
40 Below Average
30 Well Below Average
20 Bottom of the Scale (Think Matt Gaudet, LSU - 2010 “speed”)
Grade Breakdown for Overall Position Group
80 Top of the Scale (Think Rice Starting Pitching - 2003)
70 Well Above Average
60 Above Average
50 Average
40 Below Average
30 Well Below Average
20 Bottom of the Scale
This post was edited on 2/10/26 at 7:11 am
30
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:22 am to Adam4848
CATCHER
Cade Arrambide So. 6’3 210lbs (0) Bats-R Throws-R
Eddie Yamin RS-Jr. 6’5 205lbs (13) Bats-R Throws-R
Omar Serna Fr. 6’2 245lbs (25) Bats-R Throws-R
There is so much immense MLB talent here between Cade Arrambide and Omar Serna (both were the top HS catcher out of Texas the past two draft classes). Still…it’s not wrong to save optimism until one emerges midway through SEC play and/or establish themselves ahead of the rest of the group. Arrambide will and should continue taking a majority of the reps here and start opening night. To be candid I had marked Eddie Yamin as a transfer out player during the middle of last year but he’s stuck around and has really found another gear…to the point I think he’s moved his way up in the depth chart, I don’t know if Yamin has officially slid into the backup role but he and Serna are almost interchangeable right now.
Cade Arrambide didn’t have as many responsibilities a year ago while Luis Hernandez was doing most of the heavy lifting but he was able to get his feet wet, get at bats during midweek games, and eventually become the primary catcher for Eyanson almost at a full time roll which should reap major benefits this spring. Cade possesses two tools at the collegiate level that are well above average and plus plus (power and arm). Arrambide has a wonderful frame (very good upper body strength). To me he's still more of a pull hitter right now. A bit of a surprise to me was how quickly he geared up over the fall where he lead LSU in hits and doubles, second in HR’s, lead in OPS by a wide margin, and lead all hitters in BB/K rate. At the very least if he can settle in this lineup and hover around .300 and hit around 5-6 in the lineup I don’t think that’s asking too much where it will only solidify the middle the order which will need some power from the right side in a big way with the departures of Jones and Frey. Speed is ever so slightly below average but he moves very well for the position. The glove was downright sloppy early spring a year ago but he cleaned it up throughout the year and became respectable against some pretty good competition. The glove and receiving has improved as a whole, it was an area at times I think Yamin/Serna is really pushed him. The arm is a plus tool and his CS % was better than Hernandez although with a lower sample size. Losing Anderson/Eyanson will hurt a bit in the fact that they were able to control the run game to a certain extent. With that being said, I don’t believe teams will test his arm too much unless they see something we don’t.
Eddie Yamin as mentioned above deserves credit for sticking around the program and competing at this day in age. Frame is very nice, he’s a plus defender who is very soft hands behind the plate and moves well defensively. His work ethic and glove really help push him higher up this depth chart. He’s producing way more load contact than he had by a mile which will get him at bats this spring. He needs to improve his K rate, still too many times he gets aggressive and chasing, that’ll only get better with more reps. Has above average speed for the position. Only had one breakout year at Dayton so the book is still on him if he can become an everyday player at the SEC level.
Omar Serna took his name out of the MLB draft last year, he had very high draft interest and is one of the top prospects in this fantastic freshman class. Even though Cade has higher tools Omar may be a bit more polished as a true freshman. Serna is literally a much bigger body here and has put a major effort into his strength and conditioning to slim down to where he is today. The swing is still too long at times and he’ll need to show he can hit offspeed with consistency before any of us pencil him as a starting candidate. When he does square balls he generates plenty of power, one of the best tools on the team. I can’t tell you what they have planned for a rotation but Serna will get some time in mop up duty as they bring him along at his own pace. Speed is below average, arm is plus and is something to build off of…look for him to push for time at 1B and DH this year and next year if he doesn’t start at catcher.
My take: Arrambide and Serna have so much raw and untaped potential between the two and this position is in very good hands moving forward but we need to realize there will be minor growing pains at times. It’s a very very good sign to see Arrambide working counts more and lessening his swing when needed. The work he’s put in with Jordan last summer/fall we’ll see a step forward defensively. If Cade can get around 200 at bats this year he’ll hit at least 10-14 HR’s. The power is there and its very evident… he’s one of those players that when everything clicks he goes from a bit of an afterthought in the lineup to oh wow they can really build around him. I always side with caution on new starters but Cade has shown enough as a true freshman, he’s gone up against great competition as a true freshman, he’s shown consistency over the course of the fall into spring, he’s had another year in the strength program. Everything he needs is out there in front of him, I’d like to see them get him as many reps and at bats before SEC play begins. Weaknesses here? If Arrambide struggles to really take a step forward would either of Yamin or Serna be ready to play everyday at a championship level?
Cade Arrambide
Power------70
Hitting------60
Speed------45
Fielding----55
Arm---------70
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Omar Serna
POSITION LOSSES:
Luis Hernandez
Blaise Priester
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 60
Cade Arrambide So. 6’3 210lbs (0) Bats-R Throws-R
Eddie Yamin RS-Jr. 6’5 205lbs (13) Bats-R Throws-R
Omar Serna Fr. 6’2 245lbs (25) Bats-R Throws-R
There is so much immense MLB talent here between Cade Arrambide and Omar Serna (both were the top HS catcher out of Texas the past two draft classes). Still…it’s not wrong to save optimism until one emerges midway through SEC play and/or establish themselves ahead of the rest of the group. Arrambide will and should continue taking a majority of the reps here and start opening night. To be candid I had marked Eddie Yamin as a transfer out player during the middle of last year but he’s stuck around and has really found another gear…to the point I think he’s moved his way up in the depth chart, I don’t know if Yamin has officially slid into the backup role but he and Serna are almost interchangeable right now.
Cade Arrambide didn’t have as many responsibilities a year ago while Luis Hernandez was doing most of the heavy lifting but he was able to get his feet wet, get at bats during midweek games, and eventually become the primary catcher for Eyanson almost at a full time roll which should reap major benefits this spring. Cade possesses two tools at the collegiate level that are well above average and plus plus (power and arm). Arrambide has a wonderful frame (very good upper body strength). To me he's still more of a pull hitter right now. A bit of a surprise to me was how quickly he geared up over the fall where he lead LSU in hits and doubles, second in HR’s, lead in OPS by a wide margin, and lead all hitters in BB/K rate. At the very least if he can settle in this lineup and hover around .300 and hit around 5-6 in the lineup I don’t think that’s asking too much where it will only solidify the middle the order which will need some power from the right side in a big way with the departures of Jones and Frey. Speed is ever so slightly below average but he moves very well for the position. The glove was downright sloppy early spring a year ago but he cleaned it up throughout the year and became respectable against some pretty good competition. The glove and receiving has improved as a whole, it was an area at times I think Yamin/Serna is really pushed him. The arm is a plus tool and his CS % was better than Hernandez although with a lower sample size. Losing Anderson/Eyanson will hurt a bit in the fact that they were able to control the run game to a certain extent. With that being said, I don’t believe teams will test his arm too much unless they see something we don’t.
Eddie Yamin as mentioned above deserves credit for sticking around the program and competing at this day in age. Frame is very nice, he’s a plus defender who is very soft hands behind the plate and moves well defensively. His work ethic and glove really help push him higher up this depth chart. He’s producing way more load contact than he had by a mile which will get him at bats this spring. He needs to improve his K rate, still too many times he gets aggressive and chasing, that’ll only get better with more reps. Has above average speed for the position. Only had one breakout year at Dayton so the book is still on him if he can become an everyday player at the SEC level.
Omar Serna took his name out of the MLB draft last year, he had very high draft interest and is one of the top prospects in this fantastic freshman class. Even though Cade has higher tools Omar may be a bit more polished as a true freshman. Serna is literally a much bigger body here and has put a major effort into his strength and conditioning to slim down to where he is today. The swing is still too long at times and he’ll need to show he can hit offspeed with consistency before any of us pencil him as a starting candidate. When he does square balls he generates plenty of power, one of the best tools on the team. I can’t tell you what they have planned for a rotation but Serna will get some time in mop up duty as they bring him along at his own pace. Speed is below average, arm is plus and is something to build off of…look for him to push for time at 1B and DH this year and next year if he doesn’t start at catcher.
My take: Arrambide and Serna have so much raw and untaped potential between the two and this position is in very good hands moving forward but we need to realize there will be minor growing pains at times. It’s a very very good sign to see Arrambide working counts more and lessening his swing when needed. The work he’s put in with Jordan last summer/fall we’ll see a step forward defensively. If Cade can get around 200 at bats this year he’ll hit at least 10-14 HR’s. The power is there and its very evident… he’s one of those players that when everything clicks he goes from a bit of an afterthought in the lineup to oh wow they can really build around him. I always side with caution on new starters but Cade has shown enough as a true freshman, he’s gone up against great competition as a true freshman, he’s shown consistency over the course of the fall into spring, he’s had another year in the strength program. Everything he needs is out there in front of him, I’d like to see them get him as many reps and at bats before SEC play begins. Weaknesses here? If Arrambide struggles to really take a step forward would either of Yamin or Serna be ready to play everyday at a championship level?
Cade Arrambide
Power------70
Hitting------60
Speed------45
Fielding----55
Arm---------70
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Omar Serna
POSITION LOSSES:
Luis Hernandez
Blaise Priester
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 60
This post was edited on 2/1/26 at 6:56 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:22 am to Adam4848
FIRST BASE
Zach Yorke Sr. 6'2 295lbs (33) Bats-L Throws-R
John Pearson So. 6'0 235lbs (11) Bats-R Throws-R
Mason Braun Fr. 6'0 213lbs (18) Bats-L Throws-L
Thank you for your service Jared Jones. In steps a couple of brand new faces but most importantly Zac Yorke who Jay has gone out of his way to mention will be the starter opening night. The depth chart behind him is pretty unclear...there's been rotation throughout the fall which has continued into spring practice, I think some names such as John Pearson and Michael Braun, make sense. Again, Bryaden Simpson will work in a here on occasion but will see playing time at other positions quicker.
Zac Yorke a transfer from Grand Canyon, was a late addition last summer but certainly is not a quiet personality. Yorke will turn some heads this spring, a very imposing presence from the left of the plate who takes some violent swings. There is power to all fields, he generates excellent torque from his lower half where he’ll spray balls to gaps. One of those guys at the plate that most contact is loud. Still he’s one of the more patient hitters, very good discipline and has done a nice job cutting down his K rate in college. Zach is one of the more polished transfers at the plate entering an SEC school this year and while certainly not a “lock” to succeed everyday against SEC pitching he’s impressing the coaching staff to the point I think they keep him around cleanup to protect either Brown or Milam in the lineup. Speed is below average...I will say he moves lighter than what you'd expect. His glove is average, range is below average, he moves generally ok for his frame but we can’t act as if there won’t be a drop off from Jones who became a very polished defender. Arm is average where he can make routine throws. All of this being said he's settling at 1B and should be more than capable as an everyday player.
John Pearson will get a ton of at bats to start the season and I’m projecting him to get a share at bats this season if he doesn’t lock up a starting position as they’ll need his power from the right side and as a pinch hitter. John showed his explosive raw power to the pull side as a freshman, but his swing had holes in it and it never amounted to more than a spot weekday start or pinch hit opportunity. Pearson is actually a great athlete for his stature and a little better defender than Yorke. Do I think they platoon here? Probably not but he’s going to push at either 1B, 3B, or DH. Before this all becomes a reality he needs to show he can make contact on a consistent basis more than he has his freshman season and through the fall. They don’t need to rush him and I hope for his sake he continues to stick with the program and refine his hit tool to match his power when he becomes an upperclassman.
Mason Braun shows up to LSU as one of the top position players in this class to make it to campus, he’s a quiet kid who has somewhat flown under the radar. Braun the top high schooler out of Indiana possesses an extremely physical lower half and is creating some pretty high exit velocities. His swing will need to shorten a tad as a he adjusts to offspeed, hit tool as a whole is a bit raw. Very good defender and will shuffle between IF and OF right now, the OF is very deep so when he does get at bats it could be all over the place for now. Mason will benefit from getting reps and working behind more experienced players, could become a 1B or RF down the road.
My take: Yorke was a bit under the radar grab by Johnson but his immediate presence at the plate could be quite impactful especially at a position LSU really thought they’d have to accept a major drop off. He’s nowhere similar in build to Matt Clark but I see similarities in the way he could impact the lineup as a power bat from the left side.He has the ability to become a 15-17 HR guy a stick towards 4-5 in the lineup where he can really rack up RBI’s in bunches with all of the table setters LSU has in front of him. Pearson and Braun are both unproved but they have major power tools. Braun is the best athlete of the group, there is going to be a bit of a drop of defensively from everyone here we just need to accept that. Yorke outside of Carraway is the most impactful transfer bat of this transfer class and should be able to step in day one and not let go of the position so to speak. Even with his lack of speed the physical nature of his swing will find holes in the field to the point they can’t keep his bat out of the lineup.
Zac Yorke
Power------70
Hitting------65
Speed------40
Fielding----50
Arm---------50
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Zac Yorke
Mason Braun
POSITION LOSSES:
Jared Jones
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 60
Zach Yorke Sr. 6'2 295lbs (33) Bats-L Throws-R
John Pearson So. 6'0 235lbs (11) Bats-R Throws-R
Mason Braun Fr. 6'0 213lbs (18) Bats-L Throws-L
Thank you for your service Jared Jones. In steps a couple of brand new faces but most importantly Zac Yorke who Jay has gone out of his way to mention will be the starter opening night. The depth chart behind him is pretty unclear...there's been rotation throughout the fall which has continued into spring practice, I think some names such as John Pearson and Michael Braun, make sense. Again, Bryaden Simpson will work in a here on occasion but will see playing time at other positions quicker.
Zac Yorke a transfer from Grand Canyon, was a late addition last summer but certainly is not a quiet personality. Yorke will turn some heads this spring, a very imposing presence from the left of the plate who takes some violent swings. There is power to all fields, he generates excellent torque from his lower half where he’ll spray balls to gaps. One of those guys at the plate that most contact is loud. Still he’s one of the more patient hitters, very good discipline and has done a nice job cutting down his K rate in college. Zach is one of the more polished transfers at the plate entering an SEC school this year and while certainly not a “lock” to succeed everyday against SEC pitching he’s impressing the coaching staff to the point I think they keep him around cleanup to protect either Brown or Milam in the lineup. Speed is below average...I will say he moves lighter than what you'd expect. His glove is average, range is below average, he moves generally ok for his frame but we can’t act as if there won’t be a drop off from Jones who became a very polished defender. Arm is average where he can make routine throws. All of this being said he's settling at 1B and should be more than capable as an everyday player.
John Pearson will get a ton of at bats to start the season and I’m projecting him to get a share at bats this season if he doesn’t lock up a starting position as they’ll need his power from the right side and as a pinch hitter. John showed his explosive raw power to the pull side as a freshman, but his swing had holes in it and it never amounted to more than a spot weekday start or pinch hit opportunity. Pearson is actually a great athlete for his stature and a little better defender than Yorke. Do I think they platoon here? Probably not but he’s going to push at either 1B, 3B, or DH. Before this all becomes a reality he needs to show he can make contact on a consistent basis more than he has his freshman season and through the fall. They don’t need to rush him and I hope for his sake he continues to stick with the program and refine his hit tool to match his power when he becomes an upperclassman.
Mason Braun shows up to LSU as one of the top position players in this class to make it to campus, he’s a quiet kid who has somewhat flown under the radar. Braun the top high schooler out of Indiana possesses an extremely physical lower half and is creating some pretty high exit velocities. His swing will need to shorten a tad as a he adjusts to offspeed, hit tool as a whole is a bit raw. Very good defender and will shuffle between IF and OF right now, the OF is very deep so when he does get at bats it could be all over the place for now. Mason will benefit from getting reps and working behind more experienced players, could become a 1B or RF down the road.
My take: Yorke was a bit under the radar grab by Johnson but his immediate presence at the plate could be quite impactful especially at a position LSU really thought they’d have to accept a major drop off. He’s nowhere similar in build to Matt Clark but I see similarities in the way he could impact the lineup as a power bat from the left side.He has the ability to become a 15-17 HR guy a stick towards 4-5 in the lineup where he can really rack up RBI’s in bunches with all of the table setters LSU has in front of him. Pearson and Braun are both unproved but they have major power tools. Braun is the best athlete of the group, there is going to be a bit of a drop of defensively from everyone here we just need to accept that. Yorke outside of Carraway is the most impactful transfer bat of this transfer class and should be able to step in day one and not let go of the position so to speak. Even with his lack of speed the physical nature of his swing will find holes in the field to the point they can’t keep his bat out of the lineup.
Zac Yorke
Power------70
Hitting------65
Speed------40
Fielding----50
Arm---------50
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Zac Yorke
Mason Braun
POSITION LOSSES:
Jared Jones
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 60
This post was edited on 2/2/26 at 8:43 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:22 am to Adam4848
SECOND BASE
Seth Dardar RS-Sr. 6'2 212lbs (24) Bats-L Throws-R
Tanner Reaves RS-Jr. 6’1 175lbs (5) Bats-L Throws-R
Jack Ruckert Fr. 6'1 192lbs (33) Bats-L Throws-R
Second base outside of DH is still an unknown, they will continue rotating 2-3 guys here and I see this carrying over into the non conference schedule. The top two candidates in my opinion are Seth Dardar and Tanner Reaves. Johnson has put much more emphasis the last two years on defense up the middle, more than in recent memory so it’s whoever he feels most comfortable pairing up with Milam. Because of this Ruckert could see a pathway to more playing time if Reaves or Dardar aren’t the answer at the plate as he's the best defender. Brayden Simpson hasn’t been working here as much in the spring but it makes sense to slide him here if he’s hitting and everyone else in this group struggles.
Seth Dardar, fifth year senior from Kansas St, spent three seasons before at Columbia (sitting out 2024 due to injury). Dardar isn’t your prototypical second baseman, he’s a bit of tweener in that he would normally slide to a corner spot but he has enough quickness that he can hold his own here. Dardar’s bat is very loud, he’s a veteran who's shown success against some great competition in the Big 12 and out of conference play in 2025. Power is above average and a plus tool, he can spray the ball from gap to gap and generates plenty of lift, I like to think he’ll make a run for leader in doubles if he ends up playing everyday. Has a very good feel for pitching, aggressive bat at times, I’d like to see him stay a little more patient at times, but if he’s hunting fastballs you let him. With Dardar's loud contact it would benefit the lineup if he could slide into the bottom of the order where they could use another RBI producer from the left side of the plate. Seth moves quicker than what you’d think but it’s still not a plus tool in my opinion, he may attempt a steal here or there but mostly plays station to station. Glove is average, he ended up playing about half 2B and half DH a season ago, arm is fine. If he does end up starting you are trading a bit defensively in terms of speed and range vs what Dickinson gave you. If he does start here it’d be similar to a Gavin Dugas here, you’re plugging the bat somewhere you can shield him a bit.
Tanner Reaves may very well start here, he’s the other person in contention. Reaves has a bit more quick twitch muscles, different build, but plays stiffer defensively at times. Tanner for his build generates excellent bat speed and pop, had a number of balls that I thought would leave the ballpark that were long fly balls a season ago. With that being said Tanner struggles at times putting the ball in play, isn’t much of a threat on the base paths, and doesn’t have the strongest arm…because of this the pathway to playing time for Reaves is simple…maintain a high OBP and prove to be a stable glove. Because of this he makes more sense as a depth piece or in a platoon/pinch hit role.
Jack Ruckert out of Catholic high was the top rated high school prospect in Louisiana a year ago and while he was a high draft risk there wasn’t really much question if he would attend LSU. Ruckert over the course of the next 2-3 years will be a five tool player where all tools should play above average. Jack has such a nice frame to work with at shortstop, is a line drive hitter with very compact and fluid swing, attacks the ball, driving to all fields. Very good runner who would add speed to this lineup…can still help this team as a pinch runner in big time situations if not starting. Jack has a natural feel for shortstop but can and will play all over the infield if needed, can make any throw.
Brayden Simpson is another option here but will most likely see playing time at another position.
My take: Losing Dickinson here is tough as he helped affect every phase…LSU has some solid options here but like I say there needs to be some reserved optimism on one guy taking all of the at bats or innings. Second base may very well turn into a platoon position or at the very least they may get to a point where they try and get at bats early in the game and then sub for defense as required. If Dardar is the starter here you’re going for a veteran bat where he could fit into towards the middle or lower half of the lineup and play above average. Dardar won’t lead the team in hits or average but will make loud contact and contend for leader in slugging %.
Seth Dardar
Power------65
Hitting------60
Speed------55
Fielding----50
Arm---------55
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Seth Dardar
Jack Ruckert
POSITION LOSSES:
Daniel Dickinson
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 50
Seth Dardar RS-Sr. 6'2 212lbs (24) Bats-L Throws-R
Tanner Reaves RS-Jr. 6’1 175lbs (5) Bats-L Throws-R
Jack Ruckert Fr. 6'1 192lbs (33) Bats-L Throws-R
Second base outside of DH is still an unknown, they will continue rotating 2-3 guys here and I see this carrying over into the non conference schedule. The top two candidates in my opinion are Seth Dardar and Tanner Reaves. Johnson has put much more emphasis the last two years on defense up the middle, more than in recent memory so it’s whoever he feels most comfortable pairing up with Milam. Because of this Ruckert could see a pathway to more playing time if Reaves or Dardar aren’t the answer at the plate as he's the best defender. Brayden Simpson hasn’t been working here as much in the spring but it makes sense to slide him here if he’s hitting and everyone else in this group struggles.
Seth Dardar, fifth year senior from Kansas St, spent three seasons before at Columbia (sitting out 2024 due to injury). Dardar isn’t your prototypical second baseman, he’s a bit of tweener in that he would normally slide to a corner spot but he has enough quickness that he can hold his own here. Dardar’s bat is very loud, he’s a veteran who's shown success against some great competition in the Big 12 and out of conference play in 2025. Power is above average and a plus tool, he can spray the ball from gap to gap and generates plenty of lift, I like to think he’ll make a run for leader in doubles if he ends up playing everyday. Has a very good feel for pitching, aggressive bat at times, I’d like to see him stay a little more patient at times, but if he’s hunting fastballs you let him. With Dardar's loud contact it would benefit the lineup if he could slide into the bottom of the order where they could use another RBI producer from the left side of the plate. Seth moves quicker than what you’d think but it’s still not a plus tool in my opinion, he may attempt a steal here or there but mostly plays station to station. Glove is average, he ended up playing about half 2B and half DH a season ago, arm is fine. If he does end up starting you are trading a bit defensively in terms of speed and range vs what Dickinson gave you. If he does start here it’d be similar to a Gavin Dugas here, you’re plugging the bat somewhere you can shield him a bit.
Tanner Reaves may very well start here, he’s the other person in contention. Reaves has a bit more quick twitch muscles, different build, but plays stiffer defensively at times. Tanner for his build generates excellent bat speed and pop, had a number of balls that I thought would leave the ballpark that were long fly balls a season ago. With that being said Tanner struggles at times putting the ball in play, isn’t much of a threat on the base paths, and doesn’t have the strongest arm…because of this the pathway to playing time for Reaves is simple…maintain a high OBP and prove to be a stable glove. Because of this he makes more sense as a depth piece or in a platoon/pinch hit role.
Jack Ruckert out of Catholic high was the top rated high school prospect in Louisiana a year ago and while he was a high draft risk there wasn’t really much question if he would attend LSU. Ruckert over the course of the next 2-3 years will be a five tool player where all tools should play above average. Jack has such a nice frame to work with at shortstop, is a line drive hitter with very compact and fluid swing, attacks the ball, driving to all fields. Very good runner who would add speed to this lineup…can still help this team as a pinch runner in big time situations if not starting. Jack has a natural feel for shortstop but can and will play all over the infield if needed, can make any throw.
Brayden Simpson is another option here but will most likely see playing time at another position.
My take: Losing Dickinson here is tough as he helped affect every phase…LSU has some solid options here but like I say there needs to be some reserved optimism on one guy taking all of the at bats or innings. Second base may very well turn into a platoon position or at the very least they may get to a point where they try and get at bats early in the game and then sub for defense as required. If Dardar is the starter here you’re going for a veteran bat where he could fit into towards the middle or lower half of the lineup and play above average. Dardar won’t lead the team in hits or average but will make loud contact and contend for leader in slugging %.
Seth Dardar
Power------65
Hitting------60
Speed------55
Fielding----50
Arm---------55
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Seth Dardar
Jack Ruckert
POSITION LOSSES:
Daniel Dickinson
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 50
This post was edited on 2/3/26 at 7:12 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:22 am to Adam4848
SHORTSTOP
Steven Milam Jr. 5’8 177lbs (4) Bats-S Throws-R
Jack Ruckert Fr. 6’1 192lbs (32) Bats-L Throws-R
Ethan Clauss Fr. 6’2 186lbs (16) Bats-L Throws-R
No surprises here, this is Steven Milams job with two freshman backing him up in Jack Ruckert and Ethan Clauss. Right now I think Ruckert is a bit ahead of Clauss to earn at bats.
Exactly a year ago there were massive question marks if Milam would be able to transition from 2B and SS and be able to hold down the position defensively. There are no question marks this spring. Milam has quietly put up 0.310 average and while nothing exceptional he has shown the ability to turn it up a notch and play his best ball in May/June where last year he posted a 0.385 avg during the post season and against some of the best pitchers LSU would face all year. Milam still shows more power from the left side of the plate where he should settle somewhere around 10-12 HR's. The hit tool is above average, still a line drive approach and is able to use all fields…Johnson has mentioned in a number of conversations small tweaks they’ve made over the course of the last year. BB/K rate is fine, he went through a bit of slump midway through SEC play but worked his way out of it which was good to see. Speed is above average, very good base runner…hasn’t amounted to much only (9 total SB’s in two years). Glove is fantastic, receives the ball well, doesn’t force anything, has geat feel for runners and the game. The only knacks against him with respect to the MLB draft is that his frame doesn’t profile as a SS and he won’t hit for power a the next level, some have questioned his range but that hasn’t been an issue in college. Arm is fantastic and he is also able to make throws from anywhere on the infield. Having a player like Milam up the middle is going to do wonders to this pitching staff who is needing to replace their Fri/Sat starters.
Jack Ruckert who I’ve highlighted a bit at 2B makes sense here as well, right now I think he’s a bit more polished than Clauss, is making more contact and putting the ball in play with more consistency. Jack is eventually going to be the starting SS at LSU, I don’t see them rushing his bat, he’s more than accomplished defensively where he can make an impact late in games as needed.
Ethan Clauss a freshman out of Nevada is another wiry infielder with a superb frame, body type reminds me a bit of Greg Deichmann when he arrived on campus. Was once committed to Texas A&M before flipping to Johnson. A prospect who has yet to really put everything together, you can tell he has room to add 15-20lbs. I think Clauss is going to continue grow and end up at 3B. With what LSU has in front of him it's hard to ask a 19 year old to instantly step in and compete and win jobs against 22-23 year olds who have had three to four years in a college strength and conditioning program. Ethan is a prospect who LSU must put all efforts into retaining until he’s an upperclassman because I do think outside of any transfers on a year to year basis that he and Ruckert are the future on the left side of the infield.
My take: Milam is arguably the best shortstop in the country outside of Cholowsky, Lebron, and Bell. You’re getting a top of the order table setter who can hit for power, steal bases occasionally, and is superb defensively…he truly affects all three phases of the game. He may show a bit more power but I don't expect too much of a jump. They may ask him to be more of a threat on the base paths at times to help generate some offense with the way this lineup is set. Weakness here? You're an injury away from inserting a true freshman at this spot as there really are no other options from upper classmen, that alone keeps this position grade from being higher than what I have it now.
Steven Milam
Power------60
Hitting------65
Speed------60
Fielding----70
Arm---------65
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Jack Ruckert
Ethan Clauss
POSITION LOSSES:
NONE
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 70
Steven Milam Jr. 5’8 177lbs (4) Bats-S Throws-R
Jack Ruckert Fr. 6’1 192lbs (32) Bats-L Throws-R
Ethan Clauss Fr. 6’2 186lbs (16) Bats-L Throws-R
No surprises here, this is Steven Milams job with two freshman backing him up in Jack Ruckert and Ethan Clauss. Right now I think Ruckert is a bit ahead of Clauss to earn at bats.
Exactly a year ago there were massive question marks if Milam would be able to transition from 2B and SS and be able to hold down the position defensively. There are no question marks this spring. Milam has quietly put up 0.310 average and while nothing exceptional he has shown the ability to turn it up a notch and play his best ball in May/June where last year he posted a 0.385 avg during the post season and against some of the best pitchers LSU would face all year. Milam still shows more power from the left side of the plate where he should settle somewhere around 10-12 HR's. The hit tool is above average, still a line drive approach and is able to use all fields…Johnson has mentioned in a number of conversations small tweaks they’ve made over the course of the last year. BB/K rate is fine, he went through a bit of slump midway through SEC play but worked his way out of it which was good to see. Speed is above average, very good base runner…hasn’t amounted to much only (9 total SB’s in two years). Glove is fantastic, receives the ball well, doesn’t force anything, has geat feel for runners and the game. The only knacks against him with respect to the MLB draft is that his frame doesn’t profile as a SS and he won’t hit for power a the next level, some have questioned his range but that hasn’t been an issue in college. Arm is fantastic and he is also able to make throws from anywhere on the infield. Having a player like Milam up the middle is going to do wonders to this pitching staff who is needing to replace their Fri/Sat starters.
Jack Ruckert who I’ve highlighted a bit at 2B makes sense here as well, right now I think he’s a bit more polished than Clauss, is making more contact and putting the ball in play with more consistency. Jack is eventually going to be the starting SS at LSU, I don’t see them rushing his bat, he’s more than accomplished defensively where he can make an impact late in games as needed.
Ethan Clauss a freshman out of Nevada is another wiry infielder with a superb frame, body type reminds me a bit of Greg Deichmann when he arrived on campus. Was once committed to Texas A&M before flipping to Johnson. A prospect who has yet to really put everything together, you can tell he has room to add 15-20lbs. I think Clauss is going to continue grow and end up at 3B. With what LSU has in front of him it's hard to ask a 19 year old to instantly step in and compete and win jobs against 22-23 year olds who have had three to four years in a college strength and conditioning program. Ethan is a prospect who LSU must put all efforts into retaining until he’s an upperclassman because I do think outside of any transfers on a year to year basis that he and Ruckert are the future on the left side of the infield.
My take: Milam is arguably the best shortstop in the country outside of Cholowsky, Lebron, and Bell. You’re getting a top of the order table setter who can hit for power, steal bases occasionally, and is superb defensively…he truly affects all three phases of the game. He may show a bit more power but I don't expect too much of a jump. They may ask him to be more of a threat on the base paths at times to help generate some offense with the way this lineup is set. Weakness here? You're an injury away from inserting a true freshman at this spot as there really are no other options from upper classmen, that alone keeps this position grade from being higher than what I have it now.
Steven Milam
Power------60
Hitting------65
Speed------60
Fielding----70
Arm---------65
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Jack Ruckert
Ethan Clauss
POSITION LOSSES:
NONE
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 70
This post was edited on 2/4/26 at 7:24 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:22 am to Adam4848
THIRD BASE
Trent Caraway Jr. 6’2 201lbs (44) Bats-R Throws-R
Brayden Simpson 6’1 201lbs (10) Bats-R Throws-R
John Pearson So. 6’0 235lbs (11) Bats-R Throws-R
Ethan Clauss 6’2 186lbs (16) Bats-L Throws-R
By all indications Trent Caraway will be the opening day starter at 3B. Filling out a depth chart John Pearson has gotten time here, Brayden Simpson, they’ve worked in Seth Dardar, Ethan Clauss, Jack Ruckert on occasion. It gets a bit fuzzy with respect to a specific order…I think Dardar/Simpson will end up starting at other positions, the freshmen will be able to slide around as needed on the left side of the infield, and they are still trying to work Pearson in different areas and get him out of DH if they can.
Trent Caraway is one of the players I’m most excited to see how he works in with respect to this lineup. Caraway was the 5th highest high school prospect to go to college in 2024 (only behind Johnson-Oklahoma, Cholowsky-UCLA, Burress-Georiga Tech, & Martin-UCLA). Trent missed all of conference play in 2024 after breaking his finger attempting a bunt, he would then come back to put up very respectable numbers in the cape code league. As a draft eligible sophomore everyone thought he would enter the draft but he struggled at the plate, was too aggressive at times, wasn’t working counts, his average got down to about 0.240 halfway through the season, strikeouts became a problem. With all this being said in his final 13 games he hit over 0.352 6 HR’s and 19 RBI’s and was a key piece to getting Oregon St to the college world series. Caraway at the plate shows plenty of raw power…mostly to the pull side, very aggressive swing. Is going to continue to be a boom or bust type bat, will push for the most strikeouts on the team. The key for this coaching staff is keeping him out of these major 2-3 week slumps, if anyone can do it…Johnson and Wanaka can. Speed is above average, he moves well hasn't shown to be aggressive on the base paths. I’m being nice in saying his glove shows flashes and then you turn around and he’s making unforced errors. Has posted a 0.838% fielding percentage in two seasons at 3B…that must improve if he’s to stick on the infield, I'm giving him a slightly below average grade. Arm is actually a plus tool and very strong for his body type. His defense here may play into deciding the DH position.
Brayden Simpson who I have starting at another position makes sense here if Caraway isn’t able to win the job, he’s one of the more athletic options here quick twitch wise. Simpsons arm isn’t as strong but for the most part has a held his own defensively thus far in the spring and a similar athlete who this coaching staff is counting on to hit in the lineup.
John Pearson continues to work in here along with 1B and DH. It’s hard to tell on a day to day what they’re plan is with him but I continue to believe he’ll have a big role as they need more power bats from the right side of the plate in late game situations.
Seth Dardar, Jack Ruckert, and Ethan Clauss are other options here. It would take a number of iterations at other positions before these start at 3B.
My take: Caraway has not played up to his tools thus far in college. He had a change to sign last year but bet on himself, sometimes a change of scenery does wonders, Johnson thinks very highly of him. Caraway has bounced around 1-2 and 5-6 in Oregon St's order, I think if you sandwich him between Curiel and Milam at the top of the order and protect him it would only do wonders. If they don't go that route...maybe stacking him between Yorke and Dardar to turn the lineup over. LSU will need Trent to make an impact for this team to be a "championship team" but he doesn't need to be "the guy", if he can settle in and be a complementary piece. Scouting experts think this guy could hit for 20 HR's at the college level, I think 14-16 HR's and 75 hits with a 0.300 average would be very respectable for his game. Watch out for the glove early in the year, they'll give him so leeway but if he's showing the inability to hold that spot I think they'll make an adjustment quick.
Trent Caraway
Power------65
Hitting------55
Speed------55
Fielding----45
Arm---------65
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Trent Caraway
Brayden Simpson
POSITION LOSSES:
Michael Braswell
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 60
Trent Caraway Jr. 6’2 201lbs (44) Bats-R Throws-R
Brayden Simpson 6’1 201lbs (10) Bats-R Throws-R
John Pearson So. 6’0 235lbs (11) Bats-R Throws-R
Ethan Clauss 6’2 186lbs (16) Bats-L Throws-R
By all indications Trent Caraway will be the opening day starter at 3B. Filling out a depth chart John Pearson has gotten time here, Brayden Simpson, they’ve worked in Seth Dardar, Ethan Clauss, Jack Ruckert on occasion. It gets a bit fuzzy with respect to a specific order…I think Dardar/Simpson will end up starting at other positions, the freshmen will be able to slide around as needed on the left side of the infield, and they are still trying to work Pearson in different areas and get him out of DH if they can.
Trent Caraway is one of the players I’m most excited to see how he works in with respect to this lineup. Caraway was the 5th highest high school prospect to go to college in 2024 (only behind Johnson-Oklahoma, Cholowsky-UCLA, Burress-Georiga Tech, & Martin-UCLA). Trent missed all of conference play in 2024 after breaking his finger attempting a bunt, he would then come back to put up very respectable numbers in the cape code league. As a draft eligible sophomore everyone thought he would enter the draft but he struggled at the plate, was too aggressive at times, wasn’t working counts, his average got down to about 0.240 halfway through the season, strikeouts became a problem. With all this being said in his final 13 games he hit over 0.352 6 HR’s and 19 RBI’s and was a key piece to getting Oregon St to the college world series. Caraway at the plate shows plenty of raw power…mostly to the pull side, very aggressive swing. Is going to continue to be a boom or bust type bat, will push for the most strikeouts on the team. The key for this coaching staff is keeping him out of these major 2-3 week slumps, if anyone can do it…Johnson and Wanaka can. Speed is above average, he moves well hasn't shown to be aggressive on the base paths. I’m being nice in saying his glove shows flashes and then you turn around and he’s making unforced errors. Has posted a 0.838% fielding percentage in two seasons at 3B…that must improve if he’s to stick on the infield, I'm giving him a slightly below average grade. Arm is actually a plus tool and very strong for his body type. His defense here may play into deciding the DH position.
Brayden Simpson who I have starting at another position makes sense here if Caraway isn’t able to win the job, he’s one of the more athletic options here quick twitch wise. Simpsons arm isn’t as strong but for the most part has a held his own defensively thus far in the spring and a similar athlete who this coaching staff is counting on to hit in the lineup.
John Pearson continues to work in here along with 1B and DH. It’s hard to tell on a day to day what they’re plan is with him but I continue to believe he’ll have a big role as they need more power bats from the right side of the plate in late game situations.
Seth Dardar, Jack Ruckert, and Ethan Clauss are other options here. It would take a number of iterations at other positions before these start at 3B.
My take: Caraway has not played up to his tools thus far in college. He had a change to sign last year but bet on himself, sometimes a change of scenery does wonders, Johnson thinks very highly of him. Caraway has bounced around 1-2 and 5-6 in Oregon St's order, I think if you sandwich him between Curiel and Milam at the top of the order and protect him it would only do wonders. If they don't go that route...maybe stacking him between Yorke and Dardar to turn the lineup over. LSU will need Trent to make an impact for this team to be a "championship team" but he doesn't need to be "the guy", if he can settle in and be a complementary piece. Scouting experts think this guy could hit for 20 HR's at the college level, I think 14-16 HR's and 75 hits with a 0.300 average would be very respectable for his game. Watch out for the glove early in the year, they'll give him so leeway but if he's showing the inability to hold that spot I think they'll make an adjustment quick.
Trent Caraway
Power------65
Hitting------55
Speed------55
Fielding----45
Arm---------65
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Trent Caraway
Brayden Simpson
POSITION LOSSES:
Michael Braswell
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 60
This post was edited on 2/5/26 at 7:22 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:23 am to Adam4848
OUTFIELD
LEFT FIELD
Chris Stanfield Sr. 6’2 195lbs (1) Bats-R Throws-R
Daniel Harden Jr. 6’2 195lbs (14) Bats-L Throws-L
CENTER FIELD
Derek Curiel So. 6’2 182 (6) Bats-L Throws-L
William Patrick Fr. 6’2 209lbs (23) Bats-R Throws-R
RIGHT FIELD
Jake Brown Jr. 6’2 205lbs (7) Bats-L Throws-L
Mason Braun Fr. 6’0 213lbs (18) Bats-L Throws-L
The starters are set…Chris Stanfield in left field, Derek Curiel in center field, and Jake Brown in right field. Behind these three there’s three obvious choices in Daniel Harden, William Patrick, and Mason Braun. Guys such as John Pearson and Brayden Simpson have worked out on the corners occasionally but I would be surprised to see either in an meaningful innings.
Chris Stanfield was a bit of surprise to return to college, certainly LSU brings him in with open arms. The change of scenery for Chris did wonders as he recorded highs in runs, hits, doubles, triples, RBI’s, BB/K rate, BA, OPS, OPS. About the only part of his offense game he didn’t improve on was his power. Stanfield’s current swing lends itself mostly a line drive approach, power most likely won’t see any uptick. Stanfield has very quick hands, great eye hand coordination, doesn’t try to do too much and pull the ball which got him in trouble early in his career. Speed is well above average, I do think they get him more active on the base paths this year. Glove and range is well above average for a left fielder, it will be a seamless transition for Chris. Arm is more than adequate for the position.
Derek Curiel will take over in centerfield this year and as a draft eligible sophomore it is expected that Curiel will go pro after this season. Derek had a superb freshmen season that was integral for LSU’s national championship run. Curiel out of high school lacked raw power but in the last 18 months he has continued to add strength and size where he showed surprising pop at times. Curiel shows exceptional patience at the plate and works the entire field where he’s able to spray the ball all over the place. One of the purest hitters in college this year. Speed is well above average and pushing plus plus which they will utilize more with the departure of Dickinson. Range is the outfield is exceptional, he’s adjusting without hesitation, arm is maybe average to slightly above average but nothing special. Didn't make a single error a season ago.
Jake Brown is another incredibly important piece to this team, he'll start in right field...has the best arm in the group and has more than enough range for the position. Brown's power tool at the collegiate level is above average, shows mostly to the pull side, may settle in somewhere again in the 10-14 HR range. Has a smooth swing and and is able to work both fields, exceptional BB/K rate and does a good job putting the ball in play. Had an abysmal sub 0.200 average against left handers last year and still hit 0.320 on the year which is what kept him from playing everyday at times a year ago. That's the one area he needs to improve on, still at this point he's an everyday guy, he absolutely destroys right handed pitching. Speed is above average and a plus tool to a plus plus tool, Brown is one of the more active players on the bath paths and one of the best on the team. Glove is above average, he's a multi sport athlete who shows no weaknesses defensively...arm is above average.
Daniel Harden a JUCO transfer out of McClennan MS and Catholic HS turned heads in the fall, I think he'll eventually fit in at LF but could see some time in CF. A late bloomer, very fluid swing, generates exceptional torque, has put the ball in play with consistency. Needs to show he can hit SEC pitching at an everyday level. Another very fast athlete who will be one of LSU's main pinch runner in late game situations. There's not a clear path to the OF this year, he will see some opportunities at DH from the left side.
William Patrick out of Monroe was another big get in this high school class. Was another fringe top 100 player in the nation. Exceptional frame to speed, extremely loud tools with his speed and arm, power is coming along. Should see time in CF and RF this year, will be a multi year starter eventually. Along with Harden will see immediate time as a pinch runner or in a pinch hit role. It may take Patrick a year to adjust to this level of pitching, struggled a bit in the fall to make consistent contact, the bat is the only area of his game he needs to improve to really become a five tool player by the time he's draft eligible.
Mason Braun who I highlighted a bit a first base will eventually work his way to the OF where I see his natural position either at 1B or RF. I don't expect him to really push for meaningful innings as a freshmen with this log jam of a depth chart.
My take: It's arguably the best OF in the nation on paper as a group, all three can and should hit around the top of the order unless they slide Stanfield to the 9 hole. Every player is above average defensively with great speed. Brown can become on of the guys in the order you build around if he's able to even slightly improve against left handed pitching. Curiel will be a first round draft pick in July. Stanfield is reliable in about every phase of the game and often gets overlooked (on other SEC teams he would be one of the faces of the team). I think Harden is the most polished backup here, you have exceptional potential in Patrick and Braun who even though they might not be ready to start everyday that's ok and you can bring them along at their pace.
Chris Stanfield
Power------40
Hitting------55
Speed------65
Fielding----70
Arm---------60
Derek Curiel
Power------55
Hitting------70
Speed------65
Fielding----65
Arm---------55
Jake Brown
Power------65
Hitting------60
Speed------60
Fielding----60
Arm---------70
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 75
LEFT FIELD
Chris Stanfield Sr. 6’2 195lbs (1) Bats-R Throws-R
Daniel Harden Jr. 6’2 195lbs (14) Bats-L Throws-L
CENTER FIELD
Derek Curiel So. 6’2 182 (6) Bats-L Throws-L
William Patrick Fr. 6’2 209lbs (23) Bats-R Throws-R
RIGHT FIELD
Jake Brown Jr. 6’2 205lbs (7) Bats-L Throws-L
Mason Braun Fr. 6’0 213lbs (18) Bats-L Throws-L
The starters are set…Chris Stanfield in left field, Derek Curiel in center field, and Jake Brown in right field. Behind these three there’s three obvious choices in Daniel Harden, William Patrick, and Mason Braun. Guys such as John Pearson and Brayden Simpson have worked out on the corners occasionally but I would be surprised to see either in an meaningful innings.
Chris Stanfield was a bit of surprise to return to college, certainly LSU brings him in with open arms. The change of scenery for Chris did wonders as he recorded highs in runs, hits, doubles, triples, RBI’s, BB/K rate, BA, OPS, OPS. About the only part of his offense game he didn’t improve on was his power. Stanfield’s current swing lends itself mostly a line drive approach, power most likely won’t see any uptick. Stanfield has very quick hands, great eye hand coordination, doesn’t try to do too much and pull the ball which got him in trouble early in his career. Speed is well above average, I do think they get him more active on the base paths this year. Glove and range is well above average for a left fielder, it will be a seamless transition for Chris. Arm is more than adequate for the position.
Derek Curiel will take over in centerfield this year and as a draft eligible sophomore it is expected that Curiel will go pro after this season. Derek had a superb freshmen season that was integral for LSU’s national championship run. Curiel out of high school lacked raw power but in the last 18 months he has continued to add strength and size where he showed surprising pop at times. Curiel shows exceptional patience at the plate and works the entire field where he’s able to spray the ball all over the place. One of the purest hitters in college this year. Speed is well above average and pushing plus plus which they will utilize more with the departure of Dickinson. Range is the outfield is exceptional, he’s adjusting without hesitation, arm is maybe average to slightly above average but nothing special. Didn't make a single error a season ago.
Jake Brown is another incredibly important piece to this team, he'll start in right field...has the best arm in the group and has more than enough range for the position. Brown's power tool at the collegiate level is above average, shows mostly to the pull side, may settle in somewhere again in the 10-14 HR range. Has a smooth swing and and is able to work both fields, exceptional BB/K rate and does a good job putting the ball in play. Had an abysmal sub 0.200 average against left handers last year and still hit 0.320 on the year which is what kept him from playing everyday at times a year ago. That's the one area he needs to improve on, still at this point he's an everyday guy, he absolutely destroys right handed pitching. Speed is above average and a plus tool to a plus plus tool, Brown is one of the more active players on the bath paths and one of the best on the team. Glove is above average, he's a multi sport athlete who shows no weaknesses defensively...arm is above average.
Daniel Harden a JUCO transfer out of McClennan MS and Catholic HS turned heads in the fall, I think he'll eventually fit in at LF but could see some time in CF. A late bloomer, very fluid swing, generates exceptional torque, has put the ball in play with consistency. Needs to show he can hit SEC pitching at an everyday level. Another very fast athlete who will be one of LSU's main pinch runner in late game situations. There's not a clear path to the OF this year, he will see some opportunities at DH from the left side.
William Patrick out of Monroe was another big get in this high school class. Was another fringe top 100 player in the nation. Exceptional frame to speed, extremely loud tools with his speed and arm, power is coming along. Should see time in CF and RF this year, will be a multi year starter eventually. Along with Harden will see immediate time as a pinch runner or in a pinch hit role. It may take Patrick a year to adjust to this level of pitching, struggled a bit in the fall to make consistent contact, the bat is the only area of his game he needs to improve to really become a five tool player by the time he's draft eligible.
Mason Braun who I highlighted a bit a first base will eventually work his way to the OF where I see his natural position either at 1B or RF. I don't expect him to really push for meaningful innings as a freshmen with this log jam of a depth chart.
My take: It's arguably the best OF in the nation on paper as a group, all three can and should hit around the top of the order unless they slide Stanfield to the 9 hole. Every player is above average defensively with great speed. Brown can become on of the guys in the order you build around if he's able to even slightly improve against left handed pitching. Curiel will be a first round draft pick in July. Stanfield is reliable in about every phase of the game and often gets overlooked (on other SEC teams he would be one of the faces of the team). I think Harden is the most polished backup here, you have exceptional potential in Patrick and Braun who even though they might not be ready to start everyday that's ok and you can bring them along at their pace.
Chris Stanfield
Power------40
Hitting------55
Speed------65
Fielding----70
Arm---------60
Derek Curiel
Power------55
Hitting------70
Speed------65
Fielding----65
Arm---------55
Jake Brown
Power------65
Hitting------60
Speed------60
Fielding----60
Arm---------70
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 75
This post was edited on 2/6/26 at 7:53 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:23 am to Adam4848
DESIGNATED HITTER
Brayden Simpson 6’1 201lbs (10) Bats-R Throws-R
Daniel Harden Jr. 6’2 195lbs (14) Bats-L Throws-L
Mason Braun Fr. 6'0 213lbs (18) Bats-L Throws-L
John Pearson So. 6’0 235lbs (11) Bats-R Throws-R
I really like the mix of talent and depth here. I have four guys, in reality there may be more. Bryaden Simpson, Daniel Harden, Mason Braun, and John Pearson in that order but this will fluctuate day to day and they will also use this position to platoon. For purposes of a preview I'm going to assume Bryaden Simpson starts as this lineup is desperate for a power right handed bat and he presents a little more upside at the plate right now.
Bryaden Simpson spent three seasons at High Point where he broke out his junior season hitting 22 HR's, 78 RBI's, 0.774 SLG, and 1.250 OPS. Simpson who has spent his college playing all over the infield (1B, 2B, 3B) very well could see some playing time at 2B and 3B this spring. Brayden has a nice strong frame, has always generated very good exit velocities, very balanced stance at the plate. Power is a plus tool, but don't expect him to come in and put up 18 HR's, there will be a transition for him and he will need time to adjust in SEC play (I think 10-14 HR's is more realistic), hit tool is slightly above average where he does have the ability to drive the ball the other way to all fields. Along with many other players on this team he will strikeout in bunches. Very good speed and a nice athlete, they may try and utilize him in the run game on occasion
Daniel Harden who I have second very well could start opening day, he's been pushing Stanfield at LF all fall, and the bat has been his loudest tool since stepping on campus. Harden if you will note has been putting the ball in play and getting on base while limiting his K's, his at bats always seem to be productive. Harden if starting would probably be a bottom of the order type bat you can slide between two righties. Harden to me gives you a another contact first bat which may be what they're trying to do.
Mason Braun who I've highlighted occasionally at other positions has been one of the most impressive freshmen over fall and spring practice. Mason plays with so much poise, he's shown the ability to stay back on the ball and go with it, hasn't gotten caught up being pull happy. He's a left hander here who gives you major pop and the hope here is those giant exit velocities find grass when he's playing. Ceiling here is higher than anyone else on this list.
John Pearson who I've also highlighed at other positions produces some of the loudest contact here. Pearson will only see time as a starter here if he can cut down on his BB/K rate and put the ball in play with consistency, I think this lineup needs juice from the right side of the plate but they need more contact type bats. For that reason I need to see more out of him before sliding him into a starter role especially at DH.
My take: No one here has started everyday in SEC play, so that alone keeps me from ranking this group higher, still there's a beautiful blend of power options, contact type bats, speed, depth, an emerging freshman, you have platoon options if they want to go that route, you have options if pinch hitters are needed. DH is also a gumbo pot of bats and that's not exception this year, out of this group I'm confident they will find an everyday starter...and if they don't they can mix and match here as required.
Brayden Simpson
Power------65
Hitting------60
Speed------60
Fielding----55
Arm---------55
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Brayden Simpson
Daniel Harden
Mason Braun
POSITION LOSSES:
Ethan Frey
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 60
Brayden Simpson 6’1 201lbs (10) Bats-R Throws-R
Daniel Harden Jr. 6’2 195lbs (14) Bats-L Throws-L
Mason Braun Fr. 6'0 213lbs (18) Bats-L Throws-L
John Pearson So. 6’0 235lbs (11) Bats-R Throws-R
I really like the mix of talent and depth here. I have four guys, in reality there may be more. Bryaden Simpson, Daniel Harden, Mason Braun, and John Pearson in that order but this will fluctuate day to day and they will also use this position to platoon. For purposes of a preview I'm going to assume Bryaden Simpson starts as this lineup is desperate for a power right handed bat and he presents a little more upside at the plate right now.
Bryaden Simpson spent three seasons at High Point where he broke out his junior season hitting 22 HR's, 78 RBI's, 0.774 SLG, and 1.250 OPS. Simpson who has spent his college playing all over the infield (1B, 2B, 3B) very well could see some playing time at 2B and 3B this spring. Brayden has a nice strong frame, has always generated very good exit velocities, very balanced stance at the plate. Power is a plus tool, but don't expect him to come in and put up 18 HR's, there will be a transition for him and he will need time to adjust in SEC play (I think 10-14 HR's is more realistic), hit tool is slightly above average where he does have the ability to drive the ball the other way to all fields. Along with many other players on this team he will strikeout in bunches. Very good speed and a nice athlete, they may try and utilize him in the run game on occasion
Daniel Harden who I have second very well could start opening day, he's been pushing Stanfield at LF all fall, and the bat has been his loudest tool since stepping on campus. Harden if you will note has been putting the ball in play and getting on base while limiting his K's, his at bats always seem to be productive. Harden if starting would probably be a bottom of the order type bat you can slide between two righties. Harden to me gives you a another contact first bat which may be what they're trying to do.
Mason Braun who I've highlighted occasionally at other positions has been one of the most impressive freshmen over fall and spring practice. Mason plays with so much poise, he's shown the ability to stay back on the ball and go with it, hasn't gotten caught up being pull happy. He's a left hander here who gives you major pop and the hope here is those giant exit velocities find grass when he's playing. Ceiling here is higher than anyone else on this list.
John Pearson who I've also highlighed at other positions produces some of the loudest contact here. Pearson will only see time as a starter here if he can cut down on his BB/K rate and put the ball in play with consistency, I think this lineup needs juice from the right side of the plate but they need more contact type bats. For that reason I need to see more out of him before sliding him into a starter role especially at DH.
My take: No one here has started everyday in SEC play, so that alone keeps me from ranking this group higher, still there's a beautiful blend of power options, contact type bats, speed, depth, an emerging freshman, you have platoon options if they want to go that route, you have options if pinch hitters are needed. DH is also a gumbo pot of bats and that's not exception this year, out of this group I'm confident they will find an everyday starter...and if they don't they can mix and match here as required.
Brayden Simpson
Power------65
Hitting------60
Speed------60
Fielding----55
Arm---------55
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Brayden Simpson
Daniel Harden
Mason Braun
POSITION LOSSES:
Ethan Frey
POSITION OVERALL GRADE: 60
This post was edited on 2/7/26 at 7:29 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:23 am to Adam4848
STARTING PITCHING
FRIDAY
Casan Evans So. 6'2 196lbs (20) Throws-R
SATURDAY
Cooper Moore Jr. 6'1 200lbs (22) Throws-R
SUNDAY
Cooper Williams So. 6'4 200lbs (29) Throws-L
Replacing both Anderson and Eyanson is going to be tough but there's still plenty of options here with high floor guys who can give LSU multi inning stretches. Casan Evans appears to be settled into the Friday spot, Cooper Moore appears to be behind him in the Saturday spot. Behind Moore is gets extremely hazy. Johnson and Yeskie will either go Schmidt, Noot, or Williams here if I had to guess, I like the potential of Williams here in a Sunday role.
Casan Evans had one of the most impressive freshmen seasons as a pitcher in recent memory. Literally from opening day until the CWS finals he was an integral piece at the back of the bullpen or spot starting when they needed him midway throughout the season. Evans with a 3/4 arm slot can push his fastball anyway from 95-97mph and when the weather warms up could push higher. Slider has very nice run in on lefties and has been able to use it more than average. Does a really nice job with his change up, doesn't tip it, and it's able to stay mostly in the lower half of the zone where he gets hitters to chase. Delivery is very fluid and he's able to work quickly and keep hitters off balance. People are going to expect the world out of Evans this spring but he has all of the tools and makeup to become a successful ace in the SEC.
Cooper Moore was a very hot name in the transfer portal last summer, had interest with every major program in the SEC at the time. Moore was actually a converted catcher out of high school, so the hope is he's a little more fresh at this point in his career than most. Fastball is anywhere from 91-93mph and has late run on it. Has a very nice curveball he's able to get over pretty consistency and I think I've seen a combination of sinker and change up used on occasion that the coaching staff is trying to refine. Moore a bit like Cowan on this roster plays mostly to contact, he's only going to average about a strikeout per inning. The most impressive thing with Moore is he realizes this and plays off of weak contact where as most try to overextend to get strikeouts. LSU doesn't need Moore to go 7-8 innings everyday, if he's able to get through the lineup about over 2 times with consistency and stretch it out here or there they have the bullpen pieces to close out games.
Cooper Williams who I'm penciling in as a Sunday starter could very well end up as a pairing piece to Evans or Moore but I like the idea of giving a different look each weekend on Sunday. Williams was utilized mostly as a situational inning piece a year ago, I think he only averaged about an inning per appearance...still he was fourth on the team in appearances. Another 3/4 arm delivery, really hides the ball well from hitters, fastball has sat anywhere from 91-94mph, his two seam has been hard to hit. Shows a very good change up which really freezes hitters. If Williams is going to take that next step and start on Sunday he needs to show he can land his curveball with consistency and limit walks in bunches from time to time. He flies under the radar at times but he has a really nice frame from the left side with very smooth mechanics and should be able to eat innings up as they stretch him out. For that reason I like idea of showing something different to teams after two straight righties each weekend.
My take: I severely underrated the position group as a whole last year, this group is going to take a slight step back but there is still so much to work with as a whole. They have the ability to pair each starter with a long reliever which they found success with that model a year ago. You could see them mix and match slots/arms/velocities day to day something like Evans/Cowan/Sheerin and then Moore/Schmidt/Rizy and then Williams/Noot/Guidry. For this group to be successful they'll need Moore and Williams to play to their strengths and pitch to contact more times than not, what is going to hurt this group is to see pitch counts go up early over and over again. I think from a talent standpoint alone this group is near the top rotations in the country. Lookout for both William Schmidt and Jaden Noot to make runs at starting.
Casan Evan
Arm Strength---------70
Movement-------------70
Stamina----------------60
Control-----------------60
Cooper Moore
Arm Strength---------60
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------65
Control-----------------70
Cooper Williams
Arm Strength---------65
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------50
Control-----------------50
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Cooper Moore
POSITION LOSSES:
Kade Anderson
Anthony Eyanson
OVERALL POSITION GRADE: 65
FRIDAY
Casan Evans So. 6'2 196lbs (20) Throws-R
SATURDAY
Cooper Moore Jr. 6'1 200lbs (22) Throws-R
SUNDAY
Cooper Williams So. 6'4 200lbs (29) Throws-L
Replacing both Anderson and Eyanson is going to be tough but there's still plenty of options here with high floor guys who can give LSU multi inning stretches. Casan Evans appears to be settled into the Friday spot, Cooper Moore appears to be behind him in the Saturday spot. Behind Moore is gets extremely hazy. Johnson and Yeskie will either go Schmidt, Noot, or Williams here if I had to guess, I like the potential of Williams here in a Sunday role.
Casan Evans had one of the most impressive freshmen seasons as a pitcher in recent memory. Literally from opening day until the CWS finals he was an integral piece at the back of the bullpen or spot starting when they needed him midway throughout the season. Evans with a 3/4 arm slot can push his fastball anyway from 95-97mph and when the weather warms up could push higher. Slider has very nice run in on lefties and has been able to use it more than average. Does a really nice job with his change up, doesn't tip it, and it's able to stay mostly in the lower half of the zone where he gets hitters to chase. Delivery is very fluid and he's able to work quickly and keep hitters off balance. People are going to expect the world out of Evans this spring but he has all of the tools and makeup to become a successful ace in the SEC.
Cooper Moore was a very hot name in the transfer portal last summer, had interest with every major program in the SEC at the time. Moore was actually a converted catcher out of high school, so the hope is he's a little more fresh at this point in his career than most. Fastball is anywhere from 91-93mph and has late run on it. Has a very nice curveball he's able to get over pretty consistency and I think I've seen a combination of sinker and change up used on occasion that the coaching staff is trying to refine. Moore a bit like Cowan on this roster plays mostly to contact, he's only going to average about a strikeout per inning. The most impressive thing with Moore is he realizes this and plays off of weak contact where as most try to overextend to get strikeouts. LSU doesn't need Moore to go 7-8 innings everyday, if he's able to get through the lineup about over 2 times with consistency and stretch it out here or there they have the bullpen pieces to close out games.
Cooper Williams who I'm penciling in as a Sunday starter could very well end up as a pairing piece to Evans or Moore but I like the idea of giving a different look each weekend on Sunday. Williams was utilized mostly as a situational inning piece a year ago, I think he only averaged about an inning per appearance...still he was fourth on the team in appearances. Another 3/4 arm delivery, really hides the ball well from hitters, fastball has sat anywhere from 91-94mph, his two seam has been hard to hit. Shows a very good change up which really freezes hitters. If Williams is going to take that next step and start on Sunday he needs to show he can land his curveball with consistency and limit walks in bunches from time to time. He flies under the radar at times but he has a really nice frame from the left side with very smooth mechanics and should be able to eat innings up as they stretch him out. For that reason I like idea of showing something different to teams after two straight righties each weekend.
My take: I severely underrated the position group as a whole last year, this group is going to take a slight step back but there is still so much to work with as a whole. They have the ability to pair each starter with a long reliever which they found success with that model a year ago. You could see them mix and match slots/arms/velocities day to day something like Evans/Cowan/Sheerin and then Moore/Schmidt/Rizy and then Williams/Noot/Guidry. For this group to be successful they'll need Moore and Williams to play to their strengths and pitch to contact more times than not, what is going to hurt this group is to see pitch counts go up early over and over again. I think from a talent standpoint alone this group is near the top rotations in the country. Lookout for both William Schmidt and Jaden Noot to make runs at starting.
Casan Evan
Arm Strength---------70
Movement-------------70
Stamina----------------60
Control-----------------60
Cooper Moore
Arm Strength---------60
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------65
Control-----------------70
Cooper Williams
Arm Strength---------65
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------50
Control-----------------50
POSITION ADDITIONS:
Cooper Moore
POSITION LOSSES:
Kade Anderson
Anthony Eyanson
OVERALL POSITION GRADE: 65
This post was edited on 2/8/26 at 7:41 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:23 am to Adam4848
RELIEF PITCHING
Going to simply take a shot at where I think everyone best fits and a quick write up/notes on each player and tools on the top 3.
High Leverage
William Schmidt So. 6'4 201lbs (9) Throws-R
One of the most talented arms on this roster, fastball is a plus plus tool, curve ball was regarded as the best in his entire draft class. Breaking ball is almost unhittable when he can land it in the zone. Change up has been the pitch he's refining to land for more strikes. The key that everyone is aware of, how well can William maintain control throughout an appearance. If he can limit walks he'll be a weekend starter...the stuff is too good...if he can't then he'll be no more than a situational piece in 1-2 inning spurts.
Jaden Noot RS-Jr 6'4 244lbs (27) Throws-R
Really has a chance to lock himself into a Saturday/Sunday role if they give him that opportunity. If he remains in the bullpen he'd be a guy that can stretch and give you 4-5 innings a time. Fastball can run up to 95-96mph, very nice change up, does a nice job hiding the ball with his delivery. I expect his play towards the end of last year to spring board him into a pretty big role this year.
Zac Cowan Sr. 5'11 211lbs (26) Throws-R
One of the bigger bullpen pieces on this roster. Very nice mix of fastball, changeup, curve. Can pitch backwards to hitters at any count, able to pound the zone, very low BB rate. Cowan pitches to contact very well but has the ability to change eye levels and utilize the change up which is his best pitch.
Ethan Plog So. 6'1 187lbs (38) Throws-L
One of the bigger surprises this spring, very deceptive delivery, almost impossible for left handed hitters to see break on the ball. Has done a wonderful job attacking hitters. Fastball is mostly 90-93mph, I like him in an extended relief role because he's a transitioned starter and has the stamina to stretch if he's in the zone.
Setup/Closer
Mavrick Rizy So. 6'9 251lbs (17) Throws-R
Maybe one of the most under rated pitchers on this roster, fastball may get close to triple digits later in the season. Rizy lead LSU in appearances a season ago, fastball has great life, slider is showing to be a better pitch than a season ago. Has a chance to really become a stopper at the end of this bullpen.
Deven Sheerin RS-So. 6'5 255lbs (45) Throws-R
Injured a season ago, really loud tools from a pitchers perspective. Fastball will also play 97-99mph that seems to have substantial lateral. Slider is a true plus pitch. I'm thinking he has the best makeup to work in as a closer for this team where he has the stamina to pitch twice a weekend if needed.
Gavin Guidry RS-Jr. 6'2 184lbs (8) Throws-R
Another veteran in this bullpen who should be one of the guys you see in the 8th/9th inning. They had stretched him out a season ago, I guess I wouldn't be surprised to see him as middle reliver but his pitchablity makes more since for 1-2 inning spurts. Slider is used as main pitch where he works a fastball and changeup off of, velocity has picked back up to lower to mid 90's which is great news.
Santiago Garcia Jr. 6'0 191lbs (34) Throws-L
A transfer out of Oregon with 3/4 arm slot, works quick, has a nice fastball in the low 90's. Curve ball is a plus pitch and hitters haven't made solid contact against, must be able to get that curve ball over with consistency to stay in a prominent role.
Situational
Connor Benge Sr. 6'0 182lbs (43) Throws-R
Had a big role early last season before struggling with control at times, fastball still plays and has nice life. Veteran who has pitched against solid competition. Slider and control will separate Connor from being a situational piece to having a bigger role.
Danny Lachenmayer So. 6'3 221lbs (28) Throws-L
Transfer from North Dakota St, very nice frame as a pitcher from the left side. Fastball can sit anywhere from 92-95mph, curve ball is an out pitch, struggled at times with control.
John Shahrdar Sr. 6'1 195lbs (56) Throws-R
Transfer from Northwestern St, average fastball, seems to get change up over more times than not, coaching staff gave him a longer leash in fall and spring and has produced added confidence in his abilities. Look for him to be a one inning piece for now to see what they can build on.
DJ Primeaux RS-Jr. 5'10 200lbs (41) Throws-L
Crafty lefty who has earned his playing time the last two years as a true situation piece to get out lefties. Fastball is low 90's, delivery is hard for lefties to pick up, great curve ball. Unless there's something I'm not seeing he'll stay in this role, needs to clean up mechanics at times as he's had control issues in limited roles.
Grant Fontenot Sr. 6'3 225lbs (40) Throws-R
Hard throwing right hander who didn't see time until later in the 2025 season but put up restable appearances in relief. Fastball really plays and his command has improved along with slider. Fifth year senior who I'd like to see them get him work early to build him up.
Dax Dathe Sr. 6'3 208lbs (30) Throws-R
Another fifth year senior, transfer from Angelo St, had one of the more impressive falls which was a bit of surprise to me. Was a workhorse the last two seasons posting over 80 and 70 innings respectably. Seems to work fast and mix curve and slider where he's done a nice job with control. Might be a guy the test out in midweek.
Going to simply take a shot at where I think everyone best fits and a quick write up/notes on each player and tools on the top 3.
High Leverage
William Schmidt So. 6'4 201lbs (9) Throws-R
One of the most talented arms on this roster, fastball is a plus plus tool, curve ball was regarded as the best in his entire draft class. Breaking ball is almost unhittable when he can land it in the zone. Change up has been the pitch he's refining to land for more strikes. The key that everyone is aware of, how well can William maintain control throughout an appearance. If he can limit walks he'll be a weekend starter...the stuff is too good...if he can't then he'll be no more than a situational piece in 1-2 inning spurts.
Jaden Noot RS-Jr 6'4 244lbs (27) Throws-R
Really has a chance to lock himself into a Saturday/Sunday role if they give him that opportunity. If he remains in the bullpen he'd be a guy that can stretch and give you 4-5 innings a time. Fastball can run up to 95-96mph, very nice change up, does a nice job hiding the ball with his delivery. I expect his play towards the end of last year to spring board him into a pretty big role this year.
Zac Cowan Sr. 5'11 211lbs (26) Throws-R
One of the bigger bullpen pieces on this roster. Very nice mix of fastball, changeup, curve. Can pitch backwards to hitters at any count, able to pound the zone, very low BB rate. Cowan pitches to contact very well but has the ability to change eye levels and utilize the change up which is his best pitch.
Ethan Plog So. 6'1 187lbs (38) Throws-L
One of the bigger surprises this spring, very deceptive delivery, almost impossible for left handed hitters to see break on the ball. Has done a wonderful job attacking hitters. Fastball is mostly 90-93mph, I like him in an extended relief role because he's a transitioned starter and has the stamina to stretch if he's in the zone.
Setup/Closer
Mavrick Rizy So. 6'9 251lbs (17) Throws-R
Maybe one of the most under rated pitchers on this roster, fastball may get close to triple digits later in the season. Rizy lead LSU in appearances a season ago, fastball has great life, slider is showing to be a better pitch than a season ago. Has a chance to really become a stopper at the end of this bullpen.
Deven Sheerin RS-So. 6'5 255lbs (45) Throws-R
Injured a season ago, really loud tools from a pitchers perspective. Fastball will also play 97-99mph that seems to have substantial lateral. Slider is a true plus pitch. I'm thinking he has the best makeup to work in as a closer for this team where he has the stamina to pitch twice a weekend if needed.
Gavin Guidry RS-Jr. 6'2 184lbs (8) Throws-R
Another veteran in this bullpen who should be one of the guys you see in the 8th/9th inning. They had stretched him out a season ago, I guess I wouldn't be surprised to see him as middle reliver but his pitchablity makes more since for 1-2 inning spurts. Slider is used as main pitch where he works a fastball and changeup off of, velocity has picked back up to lower to mid 90's which is great news.
Santiago Garcia Jr. 6'0 191lbs (34) Throws-L
A transfer out of Oregon with 3/4 arm slot, works quick, has a nice fastball in the low 90's. Curve ball is a plus pitch and hitters haven't made solid contact against, must be able to get that curve ball over with consistency to stay in a prominent role.
Situational
Connor Benge Sr. 6'0 182lbs (43) Throws-R
Had a big role early last season before struggling with control at times, fastball still plays and has nice life. Veteran who has pitched against solid competition. Slider and control will separate Connor from being a situational piece to having a bigger role.
Danny Lachenmayer So. 6'3 221lbs (28) Throws-L
Transfer from North Dakota St, very nice frame as a pitcher from the left side. Fastball can sit anywhere from 92-95mph, curve ball is an out pitch, struggled at times with control.
John Shahrdar Sr. 6'1 195lbs (56) Throws-R
Transfer from Northwestern St, average fastball, seems to get change up over more times than not, coaching staff gave him a longer leash in fall and spring and has produced added confidence in his abilities. Look for him to be a one inning piece for now to see what they can build on.
DJ Primeaux RS-Jr. 5'10 200lbs (41) Throws-L
Crafty lefty who has earned his playing time the last two years as a true situation piece to get out lefties. Fastball is low 90's, delivery is hard for lefties to pick up, great curve ball. Unless there's something I'm not seeing he'll stay in this role, needs to clean up mechanics at times as he's had control issues in limited roles.
Grant Fontenot Sr. 6'3 225lbs (40) Throws-R
Hard throwing right hander who didn't see time until later in the 2025 season but put up restable appearances in relief. Fastball really plays and his command has improved along with slider. Fifth year senior who I'd like to see them get him work early to build him up.
Dax Dathe Sr. 6'3 208lbs (30) Throws-R
Another fifth year senior, transfer from Angelo St, had one of the more impressive falls which was a bit of surprise to me. Was a workhorse the last two seasons posting over 80 and 70 innings respectably. Seems to work fast and mix curve and slider where he's done a nice job with control. Might be a guy the test out in midweek.
This post was edited on 2/9/26 at 9:10 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:23 am to Adam4848
Midweek/Buildup
Marcos Paz Fr. 6'2 228lbs (97) Throws-R
One of the highest rated right handed pitchers in this high school class to attend college injury in 2024 probably kept him from going pro, very stocky frame, fastball can play anywhere 96-98mph, slider has great depth. They won't need him to jump into SEC play right now, will eventually be a weekend guy. I'd like to see them build his strength back up and work him back as slow as he needs.
Reagan Ricken Fr. 6'5 218lbs (35) Throws-R
Another very heavily recruited power arm out of California, took his name out of the draft last summer. Another very nice frame from the right side, will only continue adding strength, fastball plays mid 90's for the most part and shows a changeup that can get swing an misses. Another guy that will become a weekend starter in a year or two.
Zion Theophilus Fr. 6'2 196lbs (52) Throws-R
One of the hardest workers in this freshmen class, fastball sits low 90's but seems to get on hitters quicker, slider has really been impressive. Could really end up being a bullpen piece, the staff has seemed to give him more rope and he's holding his own. Again, there's no rush to throw him in the fire here.
Jonah Aase Fr. 6'1 208lbs (39) Throws-L
Will redshirt in 2026
My Take: This coaching staff has done an amazing job stockpiling talent here, you have on paper about 3-4 guys on this list who could be starters at other SEC schools. There are about 8 guys on this right now I'm confident could get outs in an SEC game, usually it's about half that. I think they are going to continue the path of piggybacking starters and stretching guys for multiple innings. You have options here. The freshmen class has been sensational and are pushing for innings, guys such as Paz/Ricken/Theophilus can and should work for playing time on weekends. The bullpen really can and should be a strength for this team which will be needed as the starters on paper won't be able to go as deep into games every weekend. There is a lot to like here.
William Schmidt
Arm Strength---------75
Movement-------------75
Stamina----------------60
Control-----------------45
Jaden Noot
Arm Strength---------70
Movement-------------65
Stamina----------------65
Control-----------------55
Zach Cowan
Arm Strength---------60
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------60
Control-----------------65
OVERALL POSITION GRADE: 70
Marcos Paz Fr. 6'2 228lbs (97) Throws-R
One of the highest rated right handed pitchers in this high school class to attend college injury in 2024 probably kept him from going pro, very stocky frame, fastball can play anywhere 96-98mph, slider has great depth. They won't need him to jump into SEC play right now, will eventually be a weekend guy. I'd like to see them build his strength back up and work him back as slow as he needs.
Reagan Ricken Fr. 6'5 218lbs (35) Throws-R
Another very heavily recruited power arm out of California, took his name out of the draft last summer. Another very nice frame from the right side, will only continue adding strength, fastball plays mid 90's for the most part and shows a changeup that can get swing an misses. Another guy that will become a weekend starter in a year or two.
Zion Theophilus Fr. 6'2 196lbs (52) Throws-R
One of the hardest workers in this freshmen class, fastball sits low 90's but seems to get on hitters quicker, slider has really been impressive. Could really end up being a bullpen piece, the staff has seemed to give him more rope and he's holding his own. Again, there's no rush to throw him in the fire here.
Jonah Aase Fr. 6'1 208lbs (39) Throws-L
Will redshirt in 2026
My Take: This coaching staff has done an amazing job stockpiling talent here, you have on paper about 3-4 guys on this list who could be starters at other SEC schools. There are about 8 guys on this right now I'm confident could get outs in an SEC game, usually it's about half that. I think they are going to continue the path of piggybacking starters and stretching guys for multiple innings. You have options here. The freshmen class has been sensational and are pushing for innings, guys such as Paz/Ricken/Theophilus can and should work for playing time on weekends. The bullpen really can and should be a strength for this team which will be needed as the starters on paper won't be able to go as deep into games every weekend. There is a lot to like here.
William Schmidt
Arm Strength---------75
Movement-------------75
Stamina----------------60
Control-----------------45
Jaden Noot
Arm Strength---------70
Movement-------------65
Stamina----------------65
Control-----------------55
Zach Cowan
Arm Strength---------60
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------60
Control-----------------65
OVERALL POSITION GRADE: 70
This post was edited on 2/9/26 at 9:10 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:23 am to Adam4848
PRO PROSPECTS
*Draft eligible sophomore*
2026 MLB DRAFT
1. Derek Curiel OF*
2. Steven Milam INF
3. Jake Brown OF
4. Deven Sheerin RHP
5. Trent Caraway INF
6. Mavrick Rizy RHP*
7. Cooper Moore RHP
8. Chris Stanfield OF
9. Zac Cowan RHP
10. Zach Yorke INF
2027 MLB DRAFT
1. Derek Curiel OF
2. William Schmidt RHP
3. Cade Arrambide C
4. Casan Evans RHP
5. Mavrick Rizy RHP
2028 MLB DRAFT
1. Marcos Paz RHP
2. Jack Ruckert INF
3. Mason Braun OF
4. Omar Serna C
5. William Patrick OF
*Draft eligible sophomore*
2026 MLB DRAFT
1. Derek Curiel OF*
2. Steven Milam INF
3. Jake Brown OF
4. Deven Sheerin RHP
5. Trent Caraway INF
6. Mavrick Rizy RHP*
7. Cooper Moore RHP
8. Chris Stanfield OF
9. Zac Cowan RHP
10. Zach Yorke INF
2027 MLB DRAFT
1. Derek Curiel OF
2. William Schmidt RHP
3. Cade Arrambide C
4. Casan Evans RHP
5. Mavrick Rizy RHP
2028 MLB DRAFT
1. Marcos Paz RHP
2. Jack Ruckert INF
3. Mason Braun OF
4. Omar Serna C
5. William Patrick OF
This post was edited on 2/10/26 at 7:08 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:23 am to Adam4848
SEC PREDICTIONS
1 Texas
2 LSU
3 Mississippi State
4 Georgia
5 Ole Miss
6 Arkansas
7 Tennessee
8 Auburn
9 Vanderbilt
10 Texas A&M
11 Florida
12 Alabama
13 Kentucky
14 Oklahoma
15 South Carolina
16 Missouri
1 Texas
2 LSU
3 Mississippi State
4 Georgia
5 Ole Miss
6 Arkansas
7 Tennessee
8 Auburn
9 Vanderbilt
10 Texas A&M
11 Florida
12 Alabama
13 Kentucky
14 Oklahoma
15 South Carolina
16 Missouri
This post was edited on 2/10/26 at 7:09 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:24 am to Adam4848
(no message)
This post was edited on 2/1/26 at 6:25 am
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:42 am to Adam4848
Zac Yorke 80 grade speed and power
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:47 am to Datsmoneydude
MOTHER frickIN IN…. Let’s go!!!
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:56 am to Adam4848
quote:
Grade Breakdown for Overall Position Group 80 Top of the Scale (Think Rice Starting Pitching - 2003)
Rice starting pitcher was the example for top of the scale? Did we forget we witnessed Paul Skenes looking like a mythical god in 2023? Skenes is the absolute top of the scale standard.
Posted on 2/1/26 at 6:59 am to Tigerbait8
quote:
Rice starting pitcher
Rice Starting pitching staff
quote:
Did we forget we witnessed Paul Skenes looking like a mythical god in 2023?
It's a position grade
Posted on 2/1/26 at 7:07 am to Adam4848
1. Christmas
2. Easter
3. Adam’s baseball preview
2. Easter
3. Adam’s baseball preview
Posted on 2/1/26 at 7:10 am to Adam4848
IT’S TIME
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