Three Takeaways From LSU Baseball’s Victorious Frisco College Classic Weekend

The LSU Tigers had an exciting and successful weekend at the Frisco College Classic, a prestigious early-season baseball event that pits top programs against each other in a competitive, high-stakes environment. The Tigers came out on top in this challenging three-game set, which saw them face off against high-level opponents. The weekend provided some important insights into the team’s strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement as they head into the rest of the season. Let’s break down three key takeaways from LSU’s dominant showing in the Frisco College Classic.

1. Powerful Offense Displayed Across All Three Games

One of the most striking takeaways from LSU’s performance at the Frisco College Classic was the sheer offensive firepower they displayed. The Tigers’ lineup, known for its depth and strength, made a statement over the course of the weekend, demonstrating the ability to overwhelm opposing pitchers with consistent and explosive hitting.

Scoring Big in Multiple Games: In their three victories, LSU’s offense exploded at different points in each game. Their ability to break open a game with multiple-run innings showcased the team’s aggressiveness and ability to pounce on opposing pitchers who made mistakes. From the leadoff hitter to the bottom of the order, every player seemed to be contributing, which is a sign of the Tigers’ offensive depth.

Power from Key Players: While several hitters stood out, a few players truly exemplified LSU’s power-hitting potential. Players like Dylan Crews, Tommy White, and Tre Morgan all played significant roles in getting on base and driving in runs. For instance, Crews, one of the most highly regarded players in the country, demonstrated his ability to hit for both average and power, collecting key hits in pressure situations. White, the transfer from NC State, showcased his power bat with multiple extra-base hits, and Morgan’s ability to get on base and set the table for the middle of the order was invaluable.

The team’s overall approach at the plate was aggressive but disciplined, with an emphasis on getting ahead in counts and taking advantage of any mistakes made by the opposing pitchers. This kind of offensive explosion will be crucial for LSU as they move through the season and look to assert themselves as one of the top teams in the country.

Balance Between Small Ball and Power: Another impressive aspect of LSU’s offense was the balance between small ball and power hitting. While the team is known for its ability to hit home runs and slug the ball out of the park, the Tigers also demonstrated that they can manufacture runs in more traditional ways. Whether it was executing hit-and-runs, advancing runners with productive outs, or simply working deep counts, LSU’s offense showed that they are not a one-dimensional squad. This versatility makes them an even more dangerous team, as they can win in a variety of ways.

2. Dominant Pitching and Depth in the Rotation

While LSU’s offense garnered much of the attention, it was the pitching staff that truly set the tone for the Tigers’ success in the Frisco College Classic. The Tigers were dominant on the mound, with multiple pitchers stepping up and delivering strong performances throughout the weekend.

Strong Starting Pitching: The starting rotation was solid, with each of LSU’s three starters showing the ability to go deep into games while keeping opposing hitters off balance. The Tigers’ ace, Paul Skenes, was particularly impressive, showcasing why he is considered one of the top pitchers in the nation. His velocity, control, and ability to mix pitches were on full display, and he gave LSU a chance to win every time he took the mound. Skenes showed poise and command, allowing LSU’s offense the opportunity to build leads without the pressure of a tight game.

Additionally, LSU’s other starters, such as Ty Floyd and Christian Little, were effective in their outings. Both pitchers demonstrated the ability to pitch efficiently and work through challenges, particularly when they were faced with runners on base. Their performances provided further reassurance that LSU has a reliable starting rotation capable of competing with some of the top teams in college baseball.

The Bullpen’s Reliability: While the starting pitchers were strong, the bullpen also made its mark in Frisco. LSU’s bullpen depth was showcased in the later innings of each game, as pitchers like Riley Cooper, Grant Taylor, and others came in to shut the door on the opposition. The bullpen’s ability to close out games without allowing a significant threat was key to maintaining the Tigers’ dominance throughout the weekend.

In particular, LSU’s relievers demonstrated the ability to handle high-leverage situations. They showed excellent control, limiting walks and making pitches when it mattered most. A reliable bullpen is crucial for LSU’s aspirations to make a deep run in the postseason, and based on their performance in the Frisco College Classic, the Tigers seem to have the necessary pieces to succeed in that department.

Depth is Key: What stood out about LSU’s pitching staff was not just the talent at the top of the rotation, but the depth throughout the entire pitching staff. Even if one pitcher wasn’t having their best day, the Tigers had options to turn to in order to secure a victory. The ability to have multiple pitchers who can perform at a high level gives LSU a distinct advantage over many other teams, especially in long stretches of the season when pitching depth can be tested.

3. The Team’s Defensive Consistency and Fundamentals

Another takeaway from LSU’s successful Frisco College Classic weekend was their defensive play, which was consistently sharp throughout all three games. The Tigers showed that they are more than just an offensive juggernaut and a pitching powerhouse—they are also a fundamentally sound team on defense.

Solid Infield Play: The infield, anchored by shortstop Jordan Thompson, second baseman Gavin Dugas, and first baseman Tre Morgan, was particularly impressive. The trio of infielders played flawless defense, turning double plays and making key stops that prevented the opposition from gaining momentum. Thompson, in particular, was a standout, making several tough plays look routine, while Morgan’s glove work at first base was precise and timely.

Outfield Excellence: LSU’s outfield, featuring players like Dylan Crews, Josh Pearson, and others, was also strong. The outfielders tracked down deep fly balls with ease and showed off their arms when it came to making accurate throws to the plate or to the infield to prevent runners from advancing. Crews, known for his offensive prowess, also showcased his ability to play stellar defense, including a few diving catches and assists to keep runners from scoring.

Base Running and Athleticism: In addition to their strong fielding, LSU showed an impressive level of athleticism on the bases. Players were aggressive when it came to stealing bases and taking extra bases when the opportunity arose. This added dimension to their offensive game puts additional pressure on opposing defenses, as they not only have to worry about powerful hitters but also about quick and intelligent base runners who can take advantage of every opportunity.