The LSU Tigers are no strangers to bold decisions when it comes to shaping their roster for championship runs, and head coach Jay Johnson made one of the most significant moves of the offseason by shifting standout reliever Zac Cowan into the starting rotation for the 2026 campaign. It’s a decision that reflects both Cowan’s immense talent and the Tigers’ commitment to maximizing their pitching depth as they continue their quest for another College World Series title.
Cowan, who became one of the most reliable bullpen arms in the SEC over the past two seasons, has built a reputation for delivering in the highest-pressure situations. Whether it was stranding runners in late innings, shutting down opposing lineups in extra frames, or overpowering hitters with his high-velocity fastball, Cowan gave LSU the kind of bullpen anchor every elite program covets. In 2025, he posted a 1.92 ERA with 10 saves and 72 strikeouts across 54 innings, cementing himself as one of the best relievers in college baseball.
But as dominant as Cowan has been in relief, LSU sees even greater potential in him as a starter. Johnson and his staff believe Cowan’s pitch mix — highlighted by his fastball-slider combination, developing changeup, and command improvements — is more than capable of carrying him deep into games. The move is also a nod to Cowan’s durability; he has shown the stamina to pitch on back-to-back days, and that endurance should translate well to longer outings.
“Zac has proven he can handle the biggest moments out of the bullpen,” Johnson said. “Now we want to give him the opportunity to impact games from the first pitch. We believe he can be one of the best starters in the SEC and a true leader of our rotation.”
The timing of this transition also fits perfectly with LSU’s roster needs. With two of last season’s weekend starters entering the MLB Draft, the Tigers were searching for an ace-caliber presence to stabilize their rotation. Cowan provides exactly that, giving LSU a proven winner with the mentality and stuff to dominate in a new role. His shift to the rotation also allows LSU’s younger arms to grow into bullpen roles, maintaining balance across the pitching staff.
For Cowan, the opportunity represents both a challenge and an exciting next step in his development. While the bullpen allowed him to showcase his intensity in short bursts, the rotation will demand consistency and efficiency over multiple innings. Cowan has embraced the move, working throughout the offseason to refine his changeup and focus on pitch sequencing, knowing that starters need more than just raw power to succeed.
The Tigers expect Cowan to slot into the Friday night role, traditionally reserved for the team’s ace. If he adapts quickly, LSU could once again have one of the most formidable rotations in college baseball. Combined with the Tigers’ always-dangerous lineup, this adjustment could make LSU one of the early favorites to reach Omaha in 2026.
By moving Zac Cowan from the bullpen to the rotation, LSU isn’t just filling a hole — they’re unlocking the full potential of one of their brightest stars. If the transition pays off, Cowan could leave Baton Rouge not only as a champion reliever but also as one of the most dominant starting pitchers in program history.