re: Early baseball observations

I generally agree with your analysis. I think starting catcher is Milazzo with McManus filling in. Braden Doughty's role will be the same as in past years due to his defensive deficiencies.

Infield should be 1st-Morgan, 2nd-Doughty, SS-Thompson, 3rd-Merrifield. I know nothing about a promise to Berry and, as yet, I've seen nothing that makes me think he has earned a starting spot. Morgan may have the same shoulder problem that limited him last year, he is not throwing or batting during scrimmages.

Outfield should begin the season the same way it was last season; RF-Crews, CF-DiGiacomo, LF-Dugas. I like what I've seen from the younger guys (Drost, Stevenson, Pearson, and Haddad) but they will be backups to start the season.

Starting pitchers should be the three I saw Friday night. Reyzelman, Coleman, and Cooper based on one outing. Obviously it's too early to predict the weekend rotation but all three looked sharp. I like the experienced Devin Fontenot in the closer role. We have a few veteran relievers to fill the middle innings and a few more newcomers with potential coming from the bullpen. If the youngsters can make the transition to D1 ball, this staff could be pretty good.

LSU could field a very good offensive and/or defensive team depending on need this season based on the talent available. I think their success will depend on pitching, as usual, and timely hitting. I'm looking forward to the spring and Baseball at the Box.