Expectations are sky-high for the Tiger baseball program, so naturally, there are equally high expectations resting on several of the players. Recently, LSU baseball star juniors Tommy White and Thatcher Hurd were named 2024 Preseason All-Americans by Baseball America.
LSU baseball star juniors Tommy White and Thatcher Hurd named 2024 Preseason All-Americans
When thinking back on the 2023 national champion LSU baseball team, it’s only natural to think of future MLB star pitcher Paul Skenes and outfielder Dylan Crews. Still, there were so many players who – without getting the bulk of attention – made significant plays to help get the purple and gold to the promised land.
Some of those names are off to the next level, including first baseman Tre Morgan and outfielder Gavin Dugas, but it’s notable to mention that several others will return to the 2024 edition of Tiger baseball.
Two players to keep in mind in particular are LSU baseball star juniors Tommy White and Thatcher Hurd – each of whom will not only return to college baseball this season, but are expected to be some of the very best in the country. Recently, the pair was named to the 2024 Preseason All-American team by Baseball America.
In just one season with the Tiger program, Thatcher Hurd has shown moments, but is yet to really find his place as a star in the world of college baseball. Still, his time hasn’t passed, and heading into his junior season, the former UCLA Bruin has an opportunity to stand out among the nation’s best.
LSU lost several big-time pitchers to the MLB, opening the door for guys like Hurd, who has 17 starts under his belt with 132 career strikeouts to his name. If he can play up to his potential, don’t be surprised to see him garner attention as one of the best pitchers heading into the 2024 draft.
While Hurd is still somewhat waiting on his moment to shine, Tommy White has more than found his way into the spotlight. After transferring into the LSU baseball program last year, the former NC State star recorded 187 hits, which included 105 RBIs and 24 homeruns.
The star junior third baseman has All-American written all over him. Now, it’s just a matter of continuing his stardom with all eyes focused on him.
Expectations for the Tigers are sky-high
Relatively unsurprisingly, expectations are looking pretty high for the reigning college baseball national champions. After putting together an electric 2023 season – eventually coming out as No. 1 in the country – coach Jay Johnson’s squad ranks No. 2 in the 2024 preseason rankings.
When looking at the drop in ranking, it’s understandable to have concerns. After all, many of the top players in baseball were on last year’s Tiger baseball team. With several of them making their way to the next level, the Tigers have quite a few holes to fill.
Still, this isn’t Johnson’s first rodeo, and after taking a plunge into the transfer portal, LSU baseball is once again looking like an All-Star squad of sorts.
It’s not easy to win at the highest level in college baseball. Still, the Tigers aren’t afraid of the attention they have on them. Many of the players on roster are new additions, so if they can find the motivation similarly to how they did last year, there’s no reason they won’t be able to stay hungry throughout the upcoming season.
The purple and gold will get things going on Friday, February 16, against VMI from Alex Box Stadium in Baton Rouge, LA. First pitch is set for 2:00 p.m. CST and will be available to watch live on SEC Network+.
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