LSU baseball, fresh off another competitive season in the SEC, has turned to the transfer portal to reinforce its roster and fill key gaps ahead of the 2026 campaign. With departures to the MLB Draft and graduation, head coach Jay Johnson and his staff have been aggressive in retooling the Tigers’ lineup, landing a series of high-impact players who are expected to contribute immediately.
Strategic Additions Across the Diamond
One of the most notable pickups for LSU this cycle is right-handed pitcher Brandon Keller, a junior transfer from UC Irvine. Keller, who posted a 2.83 ERA and 104 strikeouts over 92 innings last season, brings a strong mix of velocity and control to a Tigers rotation that lost multiple arms to the draft. His experience as a Friday night starter in the Big West will be invaluable, and he’s expected to slot into one of the top spots in LSU’s weekend rotation.
Joining Keller on the mound is lefty reliever Josh Martinez from Arizona State. Known for his electric fastball and competitive edge, Martinez gives LSU a late-inning weapon that can shut down opponents in high-pressure situations. His 1.91 ERA and 12.5 K/9 rate during Pac-12 play have Tigers fans buzzing about his potential in the SEC.
Power Bats Enter the Fold
Offensively, LSU has addressed depth and power needs with the addition of slugger Dylan Ricks, a corner infielder from Wake Forest. Ricks crushed 18 home runs and tallied 60 RBIs last season while maintaining a .315 batting average. His presence in the middle of the lineup is expected to replace some of the pop lost with the departure of Tommy White.
The Tigers also added speed and contact ability in outfielder Mason Green, a transfer from South Alabama. Green brings elite base-running and defensive skills, along with a .370 average and 25 stolen bases. His versatility allows him to play all three outfield spots, giving LSU flexibility and athleticism in the outfield.
Filling Critical Gaps
The transfer portal has become an essential tool for roster management, especially for powerhouse programs like LSU that consistently send players to the pros. Jay Johnson’s staff has not only filled holes but brought in players who have already proven themselves at the college level. That’s crucial in the ultra-competitive SEC, where experience and consistency often determine postseason success.
In addition to individual talent, what stands out is the balance LSU has achieved through its portal haul. From pitching depth to offensive firepower and defensive versatility, the Tigers appear well-positioned to maintain their high standard of play.
A Look Ahead
With fall ball on the horizon, these new additions will have the opportunity to mesh with returning players and fight for starting spots. Early reports from within the program suggest strong leadership qualities and a team-first mentality among the incoming transfers—traits that bode well for locker room chemistry.
Jay Johnson has made it clear that the expectation remains the same: contend for SEC titles and make deep runs in Omaha. With the recent wave of portal talent, the Tigers have taken a significant step toward those goals.
Conclusion
LSU’s aggressive and calculated moves in the transfer portal reflect a program that refuses to rest on its legacy. By adding proven arms, impactful bats, and versatile defenders, the Tigers have reshaped their roster for another postseason push. If these newcomers deliver as expected, don’t be surprised to see LSU back in Omaha chasing another national championship come next summer.