LSU Baseball Roster 2019: Players And Stats

by Jhon Lennon 44 views

Hey baseball fans! Let's dive into the 2019 LSU Baseball Roster and take a closer look at the players and stats that made this team so exciting. If you're a die-hard Tigers supporter or just a college baseball enthusiast, this is your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about the 2019 squad. We're going to cover the key players, their positions, and how they performed during the season. So, grab your peanuts and cracker jacks, and let's get started!

A Season to Remember: The 2019 LSU Tigers

The 2019 season was a rollercoaster of emotions for the LSU Tigers. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the team had high expectations from the get-go. The roster was packed with talent, featuring a blend of power hitters, speedy runners, and dominant pitchers. The coaching staff, led by legendary head coach Paul Mainieri, worked tirelessly to mold these individual talents into a cohesive unit. The ultimate goal, as always, was to make a deep run in the College World Series.

Throughout the season, the Tigers faced numerous challenges, including tough SEC matchups and injuries to key players. However, they showed resilience and grit, battling their way through adversity. The team's chemistry and camaraderie were evident both on and off the field, making them a formidable opponent. From nail-biting victories to heartbreaking losses, the 2019 season had it all. In this article, we will explore the individual performances that contributed to the team's overall journey.

Key Players and Their Positions

The 2019 LSU Tigers roster was a blend of experience and fresh talent, each player bringing a unique skill set to the diamond. Let's take a closer look at some of the key players and their positions:

  • Pitchers: The pitching staff was the backbone of the team, featuring a mix of starters and relievers who could dominate opposing hitters. Guys like Zack Hess, with his blazing fastball, and Eric Walker, with his crafty left-handed approach, anchored the rotation. The bullpen was equally impressive, with arms like Devin Fontenot and Trent Vietmeier coming in to shut down games in late innings. The depth of the pitching staff allowed Coach Mainieri to mix and match, always putting the team in the best position to succeed.

  • Infielders: The infield was a mix of sure-handed defenders and potent offensive threats. First baseman Cade Beloso provided power from the left side, while shortstop Josh Smith was a vacuum cleaner up the middle. Second baseman Hal Hughes and third baseman Chris Reid rounded out the infield, contributing both offensively and defensively. These guys worked seamlessly together, turning double plays and making highlight-reel plays throughout the season.

  • Outfielders: The outfield boasted speed, athleticism, and a knack for making game-changing plays. Daniel Cabrera, a true freshman sensation, patrolled center field with grace and power. Right fielder Antoine Duplantis, a seasoned veteran, provided leadership and consistency. Left fielder Giovanni DiGiacomo added another dimension to the lineup with his speed and ability to get on base. The outfield's ability to cover ground and make tough catches was crucial to the team's success.

  • Catchers: Behind the plate, Saul Garza and Brock Mathis shared catching duties, each bringing a different set of skills. Garza was known for his offensive prowess, while Mathis was a defensive stalwart. Their ability to handle the pitching staff and control the running game was invaluable.

Season Highlights and Memorable Moments

The 2019 season was filled with memorable moments for the LSU Tigers. From dramatic walk-off wins to dominant pitching performances, there was never a dull moment. Let's relive some of the highlights that defined the season:

  • Opening Weekend Sweep: The Tigers started the season strong with a sweep of their opening weekend series. This set the tone for the season and gave the team a boost of confidence heading into SEC play.

  • Thrilling SEC Series Wins: The SEC is arguably the toughest conference in college baseball, and the Tigers faced numerous challenges throughout the season. However, they rose to the occasion, securing thrilling series wins against rivals like Arkansas, Mississippi State, and Vanderbilt.

  • Dominant Pitching Performances: The pitching staff had several standout performances throughout the season. Zack Hess's complete-game shutout against a tough SEC opponent was a memorable moment, as was Eric Walker's consistent excellence on the mound.

  • Clutch Hitting and Walk-Off Wins: The Tigers had a knack for delivering clutch hits in key situations. Cade Beloso's walk-off home run against Ole Miss was one of the most electrifying moments of the season, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

Individual Player Stats and Achievements

Now, let's delve into the individual stats and achievements of some of the key players on the 2019 LSU Baseball Roster. This will give you a deeper appreciation for the contributions each player made to the team's overall success. We'll cover batting averages, home runs, RBIs, pitching records, and more. So, let's crunch some numbers and celebrate the accomplishments of these talented athletes.

  • Offensive Leaders:

    • Cade Beloso: Beloso emerged as one of the team's top power hitters, leading the team in home runs and RBIs. His ability to drive in runs in crucial situations made him a valuable asset to the lineup. His stats speak volumes about his impact on the team's offensive output.
    • Josh Smith: Smith was a consistent offensive threat, hitting for a high average and getting on base at a remarkable clip. His ability to spark rallies and create scoring opportunities was essential to the team's success. Smith's performance at shortstop was equally impressive, making him a true two-way player.
    • Antoine Duplantis: Duplantis provided a steady presence in the outfield and a reliable bat in the lineup. His experience and leadership were invaluable to the team, and he consistently delivered key hits throughout the season. Duplantis's stats reflect his consistent performance and his ability to come through in big moments.

  • Pitching Standouts:

    • Zack Hess: Hess was the ace of the pitching staff, leading the team in strikeouts and innings pitched. His blazing fastball and competitive spirit made him a formidable opponent for opposing hitters. Hess's performances were often the difference between victory and defeat for the Tigers.
    • Eric Walker: Walker provided a steady presence in the starting rotation, consistently delivering quality starts and keeping the team in games. His command and control on the mound were impressive, and he had a knack for getting hitters out with his off-speed pitches. Walker's reliability was a key factor in the team's overall success.
    • Devin Fontenot: Fontenot was a dominant force out of the bullpen, shutting down opponents in late-inning situations. His ability to throw strikes and keep runners off base made him a valuable asset to the pitching staff. Fontenot's performances often sealed victories for the Tigers.

Where Are They Now? Updates on 2019 LSU Baseball Roster Players

So, what happened to the guys on the 2019 LSU Baseball Roster after that season? Many of these talented players have gone on to achieve great things in their baseball careers, whether it's continuing to play professionally or pursuing other endeavors. Let's catch up with some of the key players and see where they are now. It's always exciting to follow the journeys of these athletes and see how they've grown and developed since their time in Baton Rouge.

  • Professional Baseball:

    • Several players from the 2019 team were drafted by Major League Baseball (MLB) organizations and are currently working their way through the minor league system. These guys are chasing their dreams of making it to the big leagues, and it's always exciting to see former Tigers succeed at the next level. The skills and experience they gained at LSU have undoubtedly prepared them for the challenges of professional baseball. We'll keep an eye on their progress and cheer them on as they climb the ranks.

    • Some players have already made it to the MLB and are making a name for themselves on the biggest stage. Seeing former LSU players excel in the majors is a testament to the quality of the program and the development they received in Baton Rouge. These players serve as role models for current and future Tigers, inspiring them to work hard and pursue their dreams. We're proud to see them representing LSU at the highest level of the sport.

  • Other Ventures:

    • Not all players pursue professional baseball after their college careers. Some choose to focus on academics, careers in other fields, or start families. The experiences and lessons learned as part of the LSU baseball program often translate into success in various aspects of life. The discipline, teamwork, and work ethic instilled in these players during their time in Baton Rouge serve them well in whatever path they choose.

    • Some players have remained involved in baseball in different capacities, such as coaching or scouting. Their passion for the game and their knowledge of the sport make them valuable assets in these roles. It's great to see former players giving back to the game and helping to develop the next generation of talent.

The Legacy of the 2019 LSU Baseball Team

The 2019 LSU Baseball Roster was a special group of players who left their mark on the program. Their talent, dedication, and camaraderie made them a team to be reckoned with. While they didn't win a national championship, they achieved numerous accomplishments and created memories that will last a lifetime. The legacy of this team extends beyond wins and losses, encompassing the impact they had on the LSU baseball community and the inspiration they provided to fans.

  • Team Chemistry and Camaraderie: The 2019 team was known for its exceptional team chemistry and camaraderie. The players genuinely enjoyed playing together, and their bond was evident both on and off the field. This close-knit environment contributed to their success and made them a resilient team in the face of adversity. The relationships formed during this season will likely last a lifetime for these players.

  • Individual Development and Growth: The 2019 season was a period of significant individual development and growth for many players. They honed their skills, improved their baseball IQ, and learned valuable life lessons. The coaching staff played a crucial role in this development, providing guidance and mentorship that extended beyond the baseball diamond. The experiences gained during this season will undoubtedly shape these players' futures.

  • Inspiring Future Generations: The 2019 LSU Baseball team inspired countless young baseball players in Louisiana and beyond. Their hard work, dedication, and passion for the game served as a model for aspiring athletes. The team's success on the field and their character off the field made them role models for the community. The impact of this team will continue to be felt for years to come.

In conclusion, the 2019 LSU Baseball Roster was a talented and memorable group of players. From key players and their positions to season highlights and individual stats, we've covered it all. We've also looked at where these players are now and the legacy they left behind. So, whether you're a die-hard LSU fan or just a college baseball enthusiast, we hope you enjoyed this deep dive into the 2019 LSU Tigers. Geaux Tigers!