The accolades keep rolling in for LSU pitcher Paul Skenes who was named D1 Baseball’s National Player of the year. Skenes put together a historic season for the Tigers with a 1.69 ERA and an SEC record 209 strikeouts this season. He along with teammates Dylan Crews and Tommy White were named first team All-Americans after leading LSU to its 7th national championship. In addition to his on the field achievements, Skenes has helped to make an impact off the field. The Air Force Transfer pledged funds for each of his 209 strikeouts to benefit non-profit Folds of Honor. Skenes along with LSU fans helped to raise over $50,000 for the organization. Skenes says it was a great way to give back to his military community…
Cut 19
Skenes spent two years at Air Force and had two teammates that died in service. Their families and many others will benefit from the numerous donations.
LSU Director of baseball operations Josh Simpson will be following pitching coach Wes Johnson to Georgia. Johnson announced earlier this year he’d be taking the head coaching job at Georgia after one season with the Tigers. Simpson, a former scout with the Texas Rangers, will be joining Johnson’s staff as recruiting coordinator. LSU Coach Jay Johnson announced he’ll be replacing his former pitching coach with Texas A&M Assistant head coach Nate Yeskie. Yeskie spent two seasons with Johnson in Arizona and has reached the College World Series with three different teams. He earned a national title with Oregon St in 2018 and was named d1 Baseball’s Assistant Coach of the Year in 2017.
Two former LSU players are set to face off in the NBA’s Salt Lake City Summer League games this week. Rookie free agent KJ Williams will join a talented OKC roster while guard Javonte Smart, who spent the last season on the Pels G-League affiliate Birmingham Squadron, will suit up for the 76ers. Games will be played Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday before the Summer League Competition in Las Vegas tips off Friday. Other LSU players set to be featured in the offseason tournament are last year’s 17th overall pick Tari Eason and LSU vet Darius Days who will both be playing for the Rockets.