Jay Johnson’s team has started its look at 2027.
I asked LSU’s coach on air Thursday if this fall feels different from a fall coming off a national title. He’s got two rounds of experience with that. He said it was admittedly a “coach speak” answer but that he didn’t think so.
LSU has a proven process of talent acquisition and player development. Last spring was a learning process, but doesn’t change the entire operation.
The Tigers will take the next month to improve on a schedule to optimize the roster for the spring to come.
INTERESTING INFIELD
I watched the scrimmage on Sunday of last week. The infield is taking shape, and versatility is an asset.
Steven Milam is the best defensive shortstop in the country. That’s the backbone of the defense. Dawson Park, the Texas State transfer, played shortstop for the other team. I watched him take infield and field a few balls put in play in his direction. He’s got elite hands and a strong arm. I still think he’s the third baseman.
Cade Kurland doesn’t wow you with his range or arm, but he’s fundamentally sound and makes all the plays.
Malachi Washington is transitioning from the outfield where he was a high-end prep prospect in the infield, rotating between second and third base. That’s a work in progress. He doesn’t need to be an infielder on the 2027 team, but Park, Milam and Kurland will be gone this time next year. Maybe Washington fits into the next group. Maybe he goes right back into the outfield which he will pick right back up.
DAZZLING DIEGO
The most impressive pitcher I saw last weekend was Diego Velazquez. He struck out the side with a devastating slider and low 90s velocity. Johnson told me Thursday that he is a starting candidate that could be stretched out if he continues to impress. He pitched as a starter and reliever at USC last year.
CAGED COOPER
You won’t see Cooper Moore this fall. That was determined when Moore undergoes surgery in the spring. Johnson did say that Moore is really anxious to get back into action. He’s recovering extremely well, and right now there’s ever an expectation that he’ll be good to go for the first weekend.
PERFECT PROFILE
I can’t make a full evaluation on three at bats. Not one really can. But just count me as interested in Nate Davis-Cleary, the freshman outfielder from Orlando.
He just looks the part of an SEC center fielder with top-of-the-order tools.
He swings from the left side with a quick stroke and great speed. He can also really go get the ball in the outfield. When I asked Johnson about defense in center field, he mentioned Davis-Cleary first, though suggesting Jason Wachs would be the center fielder if LSU played a game today.
I’d consider it likely that Bino Watters, Wachs and Angel Laya from Oregon will be the outfielders. Davis-Cleary may be a year away from a huge impact, but that short left-handed swing and high end speed really match centerfield in the future.
