Pitcher Casan Evans of LSU has been selected as a finalist for the 2025 Stopper of the Year Award.

In collegiate baseball, few awards carry as much prestige for relief pitchers as the Stopper of the Year Award. Given annually by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA), the award recognizes the top relief pitcher in NCAA Division I baseball. This year, Casan Evans, the freshman phenom from Louisiana State University (LSU), has earned the distinction of being named one of the 13 finalists for the 2025 Stopper of the Year Award—a remarkable achievement that reflects his impact, talent, and bright future in the sport.

From Texas Roots to LSU Stardom

Born on September 18, 2005, in Houston, Texas, Casan Michael Evans grew up in a baseball family. His father, Michael Evans, is deeply involved in the sport as the head coach at St. Pius X High School in Houston and has experience within professional baseball, having played in the Kansas City Royals organization. This familial connection provided Casan with early exposure to baseball’s nuances and fostered a passion that would fuel his ascent through the ranks.

During his time at St. Pius X High School, Evans quickly established himself as a dominant pitcher and a strong two-way player. Known for his explosive arm and composure on the mound, he fired three no-hitters, a feat that caught the attention of scouts and college recruiters alike. His prowess earned him a ranking as the No. 9 high school player in Texas by Perfect Game and a Second-Team All-Texas selection by TXHighSchoolBaseball.com in 2024.

The Transition to LSU and Collegiate Success

Transitioning from high school baseball to the NCAA Division I level is a challenge that many talented athletes struggle to overcome. Yet, Casan Evans demonstrated exceptional poise and readiness when he joined the LSU Tigers. The program itself is renowned for its storied baseball history, having produced numerous professional players and consistently competing at the highest level in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

From the onset of the 2025 season, Evans quickly earned the trust of LSU’s coaching staff. His ability to handle pressure and close out games in high-stakes situations made him a vital part of the Tigers’ bullpen. As a freshman, his rapid adjustment to the college game stood out, an indication of his maturity and skill beyond his years.

Dominance on the Mound: 2025 Season Highlights

Evans’ performance during the 2025 season has been nothing short of exceptional. He has been a linchpin in the Tigers’ bullpen, often called upon to protect leads in crucial moments. His pitching arsenal, marked by a deceptive fastball and sharp breaking pitches, has baffled batters across the nation.

One of his standout moments came early in March when Evans was named SEC Freshman of the Week. Over four innings pitched against Dallas Baptist and Kansas State, Evans allowed just three hits and one walk while striking out five batters and maintaining a flawless 0.00 ERA. His ability to shut down opposing offenses in back-to-back games underscored his value to LSU’s pitching staff.

In the Frisco Classic opener against Kansas State, Evans earned a hard-fought victory by striking out two batters in a tense 10th inning. His composure in extra innings helped LSU secure an 8-5 win and demonstrated his clutch performance ability.

Evans’ reliability shone once again in a thrilling game against Missouri. Entering the contest with the tying run on third base, he struck out two batters in a loaded bases situation during the eighth inning, then struck out two more in the ninth to earn his fourth save of the season. This game-winning effort was emblematic of his resilience and mastery under pressure.

National Recognition and Accolades

Evans’ stellar performance has not gone unnoticed on the national stage. Ranked as the No. 91 reliever in the nation by D1Baseball.com, Evans has firmly placed himself among the elite collegiate closers. His consistent dominance earned him a spot on the prestigious list of 13 finalists for the 2025 Stopper of the Year Award—an honor that distinguishes him as one of the best relief pitchers in all of college baseball this year.

This recognition is particularly impressive considering Evans is still in his freshman year. It speaks to both his current contributions and the immense potential he holds for the future. Many past winners of the Stopper of the Year Award have gone on to enjoy successful professional careers, making Evans’ nomination a promising sign for his trajectory.

Impact on LSU’s Baseball Program

LSU’s baseball program has long been a powerhouse, competing annually among the nation’s best teams and fostering a culture of excellence. The Tigers have produced multiple MLB players and remain a coveted destination for top-tier recruits.

Evans’ emergence as a premier closer highlights the depth and talent within LSU’s pitching staff. His presence provides the Tigers with a reliable shutdown option late in games, which is invaluable in the highly competitive SEC and NCAA tournament play.

Moreover, Evans’ success serves as inspiration for his teammates and younger players in the program. His rapid rise as a freshman finalist illustrates LSU’s ability to nurture and develop talent effectively, reinforcing the program’s reputation and aiding future recruiting efforts.

The Road Ahead: Future Prospects

At just 19 years old, Casan Evans has already accomplished what many pitchers dream of—a spot among the nation’s best relievers and national award finalist status. As the 2025 season progresses, all eyes will be on him to continue his dominant performances and help guide LSU through the postseason.

Looking beyond college, Evans is a highly regarded prospect for Major League Baseball (MLB) scouts. His skill set, combined with his competitive mindset and proven track record under pressure, makes him a candidate for early selection in future MLB drafts. His father’s professional baseball background provides an added layer of insight and support as Evans prepares for the next step in his career.

Casan Evans’ selection as a finalist for the 2025 Stopper of the Year Award is a testament to his extraordinary talent, work ethic, and impact on LSU baseball. From his early days growing up in Houston’s baseball community to his breakout freshman season in Baton Rouge, Evans has exemplified the qualities of a top-tier relief pitcher.

As LSU continues its quest for baseball glory in 2025, Evans stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and excellence—a player destined to leave a lasting legacy on the program and the sport. Whether he secures the award or not, his story is already one of success, and his journey is one to watch for years to come.