Early Setback and Resilient Comeback
In a thrilling conclusion to the NCAA Baton Rouge Regional, the LSU Tigers overcame a daunting four-run deficit to defeat the Little Rock Trojans 10–6, securing their 27th regional title and advancing to the Super Regionals. This victory, achieved at Alex Box Stadium on June 2, 2025, sets the stage for a best-of-three series against West Virginia, with the winner earning a coveted spot in the College World Series.
The game commenced with promise for LSU as designated hitter Ethan Frey launched a solo home run in the first inning, giving the Tigers an early 1–0 lead. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the second inning when Little Rock capitalized on LSU’s defensive lapses and timely hitting to score five runs, establishing a 5–1 advantage. This surge included a series of singles and a crucial error by LSU’s second baseman, allowing the Trojans to capitalize and build a significant lead.
Undeterred, LSU began chipping away at the deficit. In the fourth inning, Frey delivered a pivotal three-run double, narrowing the gap to 5–4. The Tigers continued their offensive resurgence with solo home runs from catcher Luis Hernandez in the sixth and eighth innings, and a two-run homer by first baseman Jared Jones in the ninth, ultimately securing the 10–6 victory.
Key Performances
Ethan Frey: Freys performance was instrumental in LSU’s comeback. Going 4-for-4 at the plate, he contributed four RBIs, including a crucial three-run double that reignited the Tigers’ offense.
Luis Hernandez: Hernandez’s power-hitting was on full display as he recorded two solo home runs, providing essential runs that kept LSU within striking distance and eventually ahead.
Casan Evans: The freshman right-hander delivered a standout relief performance, pitching six innings, allowing only one run, and striking out 12 batters. His dominance on the mound stabilized the game and prevented Little Rock from extending their lead.
Coaching Milestone
Head coach Jay Johnson achieved his 500th career win with this victory. Reflecting on the game, Johnson remarked, “I told the players tonight is one of the best wins of my entire career because of what they had to do to earn it. We obviously have great talent and great players, but also some of the best human beings on the planet.”
Looking Ahead
With this win, LSU advances to host West Virginia in the Super Regional round. The Mountaineers, boasting a 44–14 record, present a formidable challenge. The series is scheduled to begin on June 6 or 7, with the exact dates and times to be announced.
LSU’s resilience and depth were on full display in this regional final. The combination of clutch hitting, stellar pitching, and strategic coaching positions the Tigers as strong contenders as they aim for a return to the College World Series.
