The LSU Baseball Opening Weekend Preview: Important games, times, and viewing options as the Tigers begin play.

As the days grow longer and the chill of winter recedes, the excitement of college baseball returns. For LSU Tigers fans, the beginning of the baseball season holds a special place. LSU baseball is a program rich with history, championships, and an unwavering passion from fans. The 2025 season promises to be another thrilling chapter in this legacy, as the Tigers, led by head coach Jay Johnson, prepare to take the field and pursue their goal of adding another title to their illustrious history.

As the season kicks off with Opening Weekend, all eyes will be on the LSU Tigers as they look to set the tone for the year. The Tigers will face some stiff competition right out of the gate, and this opening stretch is critical for the team’s momentum moving forward. Fans are eager to see how the team stacks up, with several key returners and exciting newcomers to watch. This article provides a complete guide to LSU’s Opening Weekend series, including key matchups, times, viewing options, and how to follow the Tigers as they begin their 2025 campaign.

LSU Baseball Opening Weekend: Overview and Key Games

The Tigers will begin their season with a three-game series against the Western Michigan Broncos, a program that will give the Tigers a solid challenge early in the year. As with every opening series, the first games are critical for setting the tone and establishing momentum, but they also serve as an opportunity for LSU to fine-tune its lineup, pitching staff, and defensive strategies.

Game 1 – Friday, February 16th, 2025: LSU vs. Western Michigan

• Time: 7:00 PM CT
• Location: Alex Box Stadium, Baton Rouge, LA
• Pitching Matchup: LSU’s ace pitcher, Paul Skenes, will take the mound in the season opener. Skenes, a top MLB prospect, is expected to be a dominant force for the Tigers this season. For Western Michigan, Matt Smith is slated to start, a solid right-hander who will look to give the Tigers’ hitters trouble early on.
• What to Watch For: The biggest storyline heading into Game 1 is the performance of LSU’s pitching staff, particularly Skenes. After an offseason of adjustments and refining his craft, the ace is poised to shine in his first start of the year. Offensively, LSU will need to establish a rhythm early, especially against Western Michigan’s pitching. Keep an eye on LSU’s key returners like Dylan Crews and Trey Morgan, both of whom are expected to be big contributors at the plate.

Game 2 – Saturday, February 17th, 2025: LSU vs. Western Michigan

• Time: 2:00 PM CT
• Location: Alex Box Stadium, Baton Rouge, LA
• Pitching Matchup: In Game 2, LSU will turn to their next best option on the mound, Ty Floyd. Floyd, who had a standout season last year, will be tasked with maintaining the team’s momentum after the first game. For Western Michigan, the starting pitcher will be Chris Lumsden, who has a lot to prove in his season opener.
• What to Watch For: Look for LSU to continue its offensive push in Game 2, particularly against a Western Michigan pitching staff that might struggle to keep up with the Tigers’ high-powered offense. This game will also serve as an important opportunity for LSU’s middle relievers to get some work in, especially with a potential Sunday bullpen game coming up.

Game 3 – Sunday, February 18th, 2025: LSU vs. Western Michigan

• Time: 1:00 PM CT
• Location: Alex Box Stadium, Baton Rouge, LA
• Pitching Matchup: The final game of the series will likely see LSU’s Blake Money take the mound, rounding out the Tigers’ impressive pitching rotation. Western Michigan will likely counter with Jordan Lynch, who is a veteran arm expected to provide a challenge for LSU’s lineup.
• What to Watch For: This final game is crucial for both teams, as they look to cap off the weekend with a strong showing. LSU will want to close out the series with a sweep, while Western Michigan will look to avoid being shut out. LSU’s offensive depth will be on full display in this game, and fans will be watching to see if players like Jacob Berry, who had a stellar freshman year, can continue their upward trajectory.

Key Players to Watch for LSU

Dylan Crews – As the reigning SEC Player of the Year, Dylan Crews will be one of the most closely watched players not just for LSU but in all of college baseball. His ability to hit for both average and power, combined with his elite defense, makes him a central figure in LSU’s lineup. Crews is a future MLB star, and his performance on Opening Weekend will be a good indication of the Tigers’ potential this season.

Trey Morgan – The dynamic first baseman Trey Morgan is another key player to keep an eye on. Morgan has been one of LSU’s most consistent hitters over the past couple of seasons and has the ability to change a game with his bat. He’s also a solid fielder and will anchor the infield, providing stability in the defensive department.

Paul Skenes – Perhaps the most exciting player on LSU’s roster is Paul Skenes, the team’s ace and one of the top pitching prospects in the country. Skenes has the stuff to dominate any lineup in the country, and his outing in the season opener will be one of the most anticipated events of Opening Weekend. His fastball and slider combination, along with his maturity on the mound, make him a true standout for LSU.

Jacob Berry – Another key player for LSU is Jacob Berry, a slugger who has shown tremendous potential as one of the most feared hitters in college baseball. With the ability to hit for power and provide a middle-of-the-order presence, Berry will be integral in LSU’s offensive attack. His ability to protect Crews in the lineup will be crucial for the Tigers’ success.

Gavin Dugas – As a veteran leader for the Tigers, Gavin Dugas provides both experience and power in the lineup. He has the potential to be a game-changer at the plate, capable of delivering clutch hits and maintaining consistency in key moments. Dugas will play a big role in LSU’s ability to produce runs in tough situations.

Where to Watch: Viewing Options for LSU Baseball Opening Weekend

The excitement of LSU Baseball’s Opening Weekend can be enjoyed by fans both in person at Alex Box Stadium and from the comfort of their own homes. Here are the best options for watching LSU’s opening series against Western Michigan:

1. TV Broadcast

For fans who prefer to watch from home, LSU’s baseball games will be broadcast live on SEC Network+ and ESPN+. Both services are available to subscribers, and fans can watch each of the three games live via these platforms.

• Game 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM CT) – SEC Network+
• Game 2 (Saturday, 2:00 PM CT) – ESPN+
• Game 3 (Sunday, 1:00 PM CT) – ESPN+

These services offer coverage for out-of-town fans, making it possible to enjoy the games no matter where you are. If you don’t have a subscription, consider signing up for one of these platforms to catch all the action.

2. Radio Broadcast

For fans in Baton Rouge or those who prefer listening to the game while on the go, LSU’s baseball games can be heard on LSU Sports Radio Network. You can catch the radio call of every game on WWL 98.1 FM (Baton Rouge) or through the official LSU Athletics app.

Additionally, the games will be available on LSU’s website, where fans can listen live to the commentary of seasoned broadcasters who have followed LSU baseball for years.

3. Social Media and Live Updates

For those who may not have access to a TV or radio broadcast, LSU’s official social media accounts will provide updates and highlights throughout the weekend. The official LSU Baseball Twitter account (@LSUbaseball) and Instagram are great resources for real-time updates, scores, and highlights.

Additionally, LSU’s official athletics website (lsusports.net) will offer live stats, game recaps, and full box scores after each game. Fans can track key moments and stay up-to-date on how the Tigers are performing.

What’s at Stake: Setting the Tone for the Season

The Opening Weekend series against Western Michigan holds significant weight for LSU, not only in terms of getting the season off to a strong start but also in establishing the team’s identity and building confidence for the tougher challenges ahead. LSU’s schedule in the first few weeks is filled with tough non-conference matchups, as well as the eventual start of SEC play. The Tigers are aiming for a College World Series berth and national championship, and it all begins with these early games. Every win is important as LSU seeks to gain momentum and fine-tune their team chemistry.

Additionally, players like Dylan Crews and Paul Skenes will be under the spotlight as future MLB prospects. Their performance this weekend will serve as a showcase to MLB scouts and serve as an early test for their readiness for the next level.

For LSU fans, this weekend is the first chance to see what could be a very special season ahead. With a loaded roster, a dominant pitching staff, and a powerful offense, LSU is primed to make a run for the national title, and the Opening Weekend series against Western Michigan is the first step toward realizing that goal.