In preparation for the upcoming baseball season, LSU coach Jay Johnson recently appeared on The Advocate’s LSU Sports Insider Podcast. He provided valuable insights into the team's strategy, player positions, and pitching staff variability. Johnson also shared some personal anecdotes about his busy schedule and food preferences. This article highlights three main takeaways from the podcast, focusing on position changes, pitching strategies, and the coach's daily routine.

Strategic Position Adjustments for Enhanced Performance

The LSU Tigers are set to make significant positional changes this season, with sophomore Steven Milam transitioning from second base to third base. Coach Johnson believes that Milam's exceptional fielding skills will be better utilized in this new role. Additionally, Michael Braswell, who played shortstop last year, may move to third base, while Daniel Dickinson, a transfer from Utah Valley, is expected to fill Milam's vacated spot at second base. These adjustments aim to optimize the team's defensive lineup and leverage players' strengths.

Milam's versatility and agility make him an ideal candidate for multiple infield positions. However, due to illness and a foot injury, he missed crucial fall practice time, limiting the coaching staff's ability to evaluate his performance at shortstop. Despite this, his arm strength and overall talent remain undeniable. Meanwhile, Braswell's experience and adaptability could solidify his position as the team's regular third baseman. Other players like Tanner Reaves, Michael Ryan, David Hogg, and John Pearson provide depth and flexibility across various infield and outfield positions, ensuring the team remains well-prepared for any situation.

Variety in Pitching Staff to Disrupt Opponents

Coach Johnson emphasized the importance of having a diverse pitching staff capable of disrupting hitters' timing and pitch selection. Eight pitchers have been identified to work in multi-inning roles, including Gavin Guidry, Conner Ware, William Schmidt, Kade Anderson, Chase Shores, Casan Evans, Anthony Eyanson, and Zac Cowan. Each brings unique attributes, such as varying arm slots, pitch types, and speed changes, making it challenging for opposing batters to adjust.

Pitching is not just about throwing strikes but also about keeping hitters off balance. By incorporating a wide range of pitching styles, the Tigers can create uncertainty and difficulty for opponents. For instance, left-handed pitchers like Conner Ware and Kade Anderson offer different looks compared to right-handers like Gavin Guidry and William Schmidt. This strategic mix ensures that no single approach dominates, thereby enhancing the team's overall effectiveness. Johnson's emphasis on variability underscores the tactical depth required in competitive baseball, setting the stage for a strong start to the season.