Two LSU athletes have made the prestigious Perfect Game Top 75 Seniors list for the upcoming season. This recognition highlights the exceptional talent within the LSU baseball program and sets high expectations for the team’s performance in 2025.

Unveiling Future Prospects: LSU’s Baseball Duo on the Rise

Luis Hernandez: A Multifaceted Powerhouse

Luis Hernandez, now ranked sixth on the Perfect Game list, has quickly become a cornerstone of LSU's lineup. His journey from Indiana State to LSU last summer has been nothing short of remarkable. At his previous institution, Hernandez earned accolades as a 2024 First-Team All-Missouri Valley Conference player, batting an impressive .359 with 14 doubles, 23 home runs, and 76 RBIs. Hernandez's versatility is one of his most striking attributes. He has played first base, catcher, and designated hitter, showcasing his adaptability on the field. This versatility was also evident during his time with Puerto Rico’s national team, where he contributed significantly to their silver medal win at the U23 Baseball World Cup in Shaoxing, China. There, he maintained a solid batting average of .350, adding two doubles and four RBIs to his resume.

Michael Braswell III: The Steady Force Behind LSU's Success

Michael Braswell III, ranked 38th on the Perfect Game list, has emerged as a reliable force for LSU. Originally from Mableton, Georgia, Braswell started 64 games at shortstop last season, hitting .311 with 12 doubles, three triples, four home runs, and 36 RBIs. His contributions were even more pronounced in postseason play, where he batted an impressive .381, contributing three home runs, nine RBIs, and scoring 13 runs.Braswell's clutch performances have not gone unnoticed. He was named to the NCAA Chapel Hill Regional All-Tournament Team after hitting .381 with one home run, three RBIs, and five runs scored. Additionally, he secured a spot on the 2024 SEC All-Tournament Team, batting .381 with two home runs, six RBIs, and eight runs. One of his most memorable moments came when he delivered the game-winning RBI single against South Carolina, propelling LSU into the semifinal round of the SEC Tournament.

Setting the Stage for 2025

As LSU prepares for the 2025 season, the team is poised to make significant strides. Ranked No. 2 in the Perfect Game Preseason Top 25, LSU will kick off its first full-squad preseason practice on January 24. Fans can anticipate an exciting start to the season on February 14, when LSU hosts Purdue Fort Wayne at Alex Box Stadium, Skip Bertman Field. With players like Hernandez and Braswell leading the charge, LSU is set to deliver thrilling performances throughout the year.

The Impact of Recognized Talent

The inclusion of Hernandez and Braswell in the Perfect Game rankings underscores LSU's commitment to nurturing top-tier talent. These recognitions are not just personal achievements but also reflect positively on the university's baseball program. As these players continue to develop, they bring increased visibility and prestige to LSU, attracting more attention from scouts and fans alike. The impact of having such talented individuals on the roster extends beyond the field, influencing recruitment and fan engagement for years to come.