Five Tigers from LSU Baseball are selected to the NCBWA Preseason All-American Team.

Five Tigers from LSU Baseball Selected to the NCBWA Preseason All-American Team

LSU Baseball has long been a powerhouse in college baseball, known for its storied history, championship pedigree, and elite-level talent. The 2024 season is shaping up to be another exciting chapter for the LSU Tigers, and the announcement that five Tigers have been selected to the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) Preseason All-American Team is a testament to the program’s continued excellence and the individual talent that makes LSU a perennial contender in the College World Series.

The NCBWA Preseason All-American honors are some of the most prestigious accolades in college baseball, recognizing the top players across the nation heading into the new season. Being named to this list is a significant achievement, and it highlights the caliber of players that LSU has at its disposal as the Tigers aim to capture another national title. The inclusion of five LSU players on the Preseason All-American Team is a testament to the depth and talent of the Tigers’ roster, which is packed with future stars who have already made their mark on college baseball.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the five LSU players who have earned NCBWA Preseason All-American honors, what makes them stand out, and how their contributions could help lead the Tigers to success in the 2024 season. We will also explore the importance of these individual honors to LSU’s program and how they fit into head coach Jay Johnson’s vision for the team.

1. Dylan Crews (Outfielder) – NCBWA Preseason First-Team All-American

Dylan Crews, the LSU outfielder, is one of the most recognizable names in college baseball heading into the 2024 season. A First-Team All-American in previous years, Crews’ return to LSU for another season adds another layer of excitement and expectations for the Tigers. His selection to the NCBWA Preseason First-Team All-American list is a recognition of his exceptional talent, consistency, and all-around game.

Crews is widely regarded as one of the top players in college baseball, thanks to his combination of elite bat speed, power, and defensive skills. A potential top pick in the upcoming MLB Draft, Crews has proven himself to be one of the most dangerous hitters in college baseball, capable of hitting for both average and power. He’s also known for his excellent plate discipline, making him a difficult out for opposing pitchers. In 2023, Crews hit .349 with 16 home runs, 73 RBIs, and an impressive .463 on-base percentage. He also displayed speed on the bases, stealing 14 bags in 2023.

Defensively, Crews is just as impressive. He is a natural in the outfield, with a strong arm and excellent range. His ability to cover ground in the outfield and make highlight-reel catches only adds to his value as one of the top players in the nation.

Crews’ leadership both on and off the field makes him a cornerstone for LSU’s 2024 campaign. His consistency at the plate and in the field will be crucial as LSU looks to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament and ultimately compete for a national championship.

2. Tommy White (Third Baseman) – NCBWA Preseason First-Team All-American

Tommy White, the power-hitting third baseman for LSU, is another key player who has been named to the NCBWA Preseason First-Team All-American list. White, who transferred to LSU from North Carolina State before the 2023 season, wasted no time making an impact in Baton Rouge. In his first season with the Tigers, White established himself as one of the premier power hitters in college baseball, earning All-American honors and helping propel LSU to the top of the rankings.

In 2023, White showcased his prodigious power, belting 22 home runs and driving in 64 RBIs, while maintaining a solid .348 batting average. His ability to hit the ball out of the park with regularity made him a key figure in LSU’s potent lineup. White’s presence in the middle of the order gives LSU a dangerous bat that opposing pitchers fear, and his ability to provide both power and consistency makes him one of the most valuable players in college baseball.

In addition to his offensive prowess, White is a steady presence at third base. His defensive skills at the hot corner, combined with his ability to make strong, accurate throws, make him a well-rounded player who can contribute in multiple areas. White’s leadership and experience will be critical for LSU as they look to make another push for a national championship in 2024.

3. Paul Skenes (Pitcher) – NCBWA Preseason First-Team All-American

Paul Skenes, LSU’s ace pitcher, is another key player who has earned a spot on the NCBWA Preseason First-Team All-American list. Skenes was a force on the mound in 2023, establishing himself as one of the top pitchers in college baseball. His combination of a devastating fastball, sharp breaking ball, and exceptional command made him a dominant force for LSU, and he is poised for another standout season in 2024.

In 2023, Skenes posted a remarkable 2.39 ERA with 138 strikeouts in 101 innings, showcasing his ability to dominate opposing batters. His fastball regularly reaches the high 90s and touches 100 mph, and his slider is one of the best in the country, making him a strikeout machine. Skenes also excels at limiting walks, making him a complete pitcher who is difficult to score against.

Skenes’ ability to shut down opposing lineups and dominate in critical moments makes him a key player for LSU in 2024. As the Tigers’ ace, Skenes will be tasked with setting the tone on the mound and leading LSU’s pitching staff to success. His performance will be instrumental in LSU’s quest for a national championship, and his draft stock is expected to continue rising as he prepares for the MLB Draft.

4. Jordan Thompson (Shortstop) – NCBWA Preseason Second-Team All-American

Jordan Thompson, LSU’s standout shortstop, has earned a spot on the NCBWA Preseason Second-Team All-American list for his excellent play in 2023. Thompson has established himself as one of the premier defensive shortstops in college baseball, and his offensive contributions have made him one of LSU’s most valuable players. Thompson’s ability to both field at an elite level and contribute with the bat makes him a key asset for LSU in 2024.

In 2023, Thompson hit .305 with 12 home runs and 59 RBIs, providing a steady presence in the middle of LSU’s lineup. His bat has become more dangerous over the past few seasons, and he has become a reliable run producer for the Tigers. Thompson also has exceptional speed, making him a threat on the bases and an all-around asset for LSU.

Defensively, Thompson is a standout at shortstop. His quick reactions, excellent footwork, and strong arm make him one of the best in the country at his position. Thompson’s ability to turn double plays and make highlight-reel plays in the field gives LSU a significant advantage on defense.

Thompson’s all-around skill set makes him one of the most important players on the LSU roster in 2024, and his leadership in the infield will be key to LSU’s success throughout the season.

5. Trey Morgan (First Baseman) – NCBWA Preseason Third-Team All-American

Trey Morgan, LSU’s first baseman, rounds out the Tigers’ five-player selection to the NCBWA Preseason All-American Team. Morgan has been a consistent performer for LSU over the past few seasons, both offensively and defensively. His ability to hit for average, provide power, and play elite defense at first base makes him a key component of LSU’s lineup and one of the top players to watch in 2024.

In 2023, Morgan posted a .321 batting average with 12 home runs and 57 RBIs, making him a dangerous presence in LSU’s lineup. His ability to hit to all fields, combined with his power potential, gives LSU a versatile hitter who can contribute in many ways. Morgan is also known for his excellent eye at the plate, which helps him get on base and create scoring opportunities for the Tigers.

Defensively, Morgan is a rock at first base. His excellent glove work and ability to scoop throws make him one of the top defenders at his position in college baseball. His reliability on defense provides LSU with stability on the infield and ensures that they can rely on him in key moments.

Morgan’s offensive and defensive contributions will be vital for LSU’s success in 2024, and his experience and leadership will play a crucial role in guiding the Tigers through the challenges of the season.

The Importance of Preseason All-American Honors for LSU

The selection of five LSU players to the NCBWA Preseason All-American Team speaks volumes about the talent and depth of the Tigers’ roster. These individual honors not only recognize the hard work and dedication of each player but also reflect LSU’s position as one of the elite programs in college baseball. With these five players leading the charge, LSU is poised for another successful season in 2024, and these preseason accolades only add to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the team.

For head coach Jay Johnson, having five players named to such prestigious lists is a testament to the culture of excellence he has worked to build at LSU. Johnson has emphasized building a balanced and deep roster, and the recognition of these five players speaks to the success of his vision. As LSU looks to capture another national title, these players will be key to making that dream a reality.