LSU Baseball Heads to Thibodaux for Rescheduled Clash with Nicholls Amid National Climb

The LSU Baseball Tigers are on the road again, and this time, they’re headed to Thibodaux. Tonight, they’ll take on the Nicholls Colonels in a midweek showdown that was originally scheduled for February 19 but postponed due to inclement weather. Now set under the spring lights of April, the matchup carries more weight than it might have earlier in the season—not because of the stakes, but because of where the Tigers now stand.

With a 30-3 overall record and a dominant 10-2 mark in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play, LSU has climbed to the No. 3 spot in the national rankings. The Tigers’ surge up the polls is a testament to their consistency, depth, and firepower. As they prepare to face a smaller in-state program, the game offers an opportunity to keep the momentum rolling while fine-tuning their play ahead of the next SEC test.

This trip to Nicholls is more than just a makeup game. For LSU, it’s another step in a season that’s been defined by focus, resilience, and a refusal to let up. Even in midweek non-conference games—often seen as lower-stakes opportunities to rotate the lineup—this Tigers squad has demonstrated a championship mindset.

From the jump this season, LSU has looked the part of a national contender. Under head coach Jay Johnson, now in his third season, the Tigers have combined the big bats, sharp pitching, and polished defense that make a College World Series run not just a dream, but a reasonable expectation. Johnson has emphasized the importance of preparation and consistency, values that are reflected in how the team has handled both powerhouse SEC rivals and smaller programs alike.

The Tigers’ lineup is a bruising one. Whether it’s top-of-the-order speed setting the table or the middle of the lineup doing the heavy lifting, this group has delivered in nearly every scenario. Their team batting average ranks among the best in the country, and they’ve shown a knack for coming through in high-leverage situations. The long ball has also been a key weapon, with multiple players reaching double digits in home runs before the midpoint of the season.

One standout performer has been junior outfielder Jared Jones, who has provided both pop and poise in the heart of the order. His ability to change the game with one swing has made him a constant threat, while his plate discipline and situational awareness have elevated his value even further. Then there’s freshman phenom Brayden Authement, who has impressed early with his bat speed, glove work, and mature approach at the plate. He’s quickly become a fan favorite, a rising star whose ceiling seems limitless.

Behind the plate, LSU boasts one of the most reliable catchers in the country in Alex Milazzo, whose leadership and game-calling have been vital to the success of the pitching staff. Speaking of pitching, that’s another area where LSU has set itself apart.

The Tigers’ rotation has been steady and often overpowering. Ace Luke Holman has anchored the staff with poise and precision, regularly giving LSU deep starts and setting the tone for weekend series. The bullpen, too, has been a bright spot, with freshmen and veterans alike contributing in key moments. Garrett Edwards and Griffin Herring have emerged as reliable late-inning options, capable of slamming the door or bailing the team out of a jam.

Tonight’s game against Nicholls offers an opportunity for some of the less-used arms to get work in a competitive setting. Midweek games often feature different pitching strategies, sometimes including bullpen games or openers. It’s likely Johnson and pitching coach Wes Johnson will use this contest to evaluate depth and test new combinations—critical tasks as the team prepares for the grind of May and, eventually, postseason play.

On the other side, Nicholls is eager for the challenge. While the Colonels may not be in the same tier as LSU in terms of resources or national recognition, they’ve long embraced their underdog identity. Hosting the Tigers is a marquee event for the program and the city of Thibodaux, and they’ll be looking to capitalize on the energy of a packed home crowd. These are the kind of games where upsets can happen, especially if LSU comes in flat or unfocused.

But that hasn’t been a problem for this group of Tigers. All season, they’ve shown up ready to play, regardless of the opponent. That’s been a hallmark of Jay Johnson’s approach—taking every game seriously, no matter where or when it’s played. It’s a culture built on accountability and pride, and it’s produced results.

With SEC heavyweights still ahead on the schedule, including series against Arkansas and Mississippi State, tonight’s contest also serves as a breather of sorts. It allows the Tigers to regroup and reset before diving back into conference play. But make no mistake—LSU doesn’t view this as an off night.

Beyond the immediate implications, games like these also provide opportunities for younger players and bench contributors to shine. Expect to see a wider rotation of players tonight, especially if LSU builds a comfortable lead. These moments can be invaluable down the stretch, giving players experience and confidence that may be called upon in the postseason.

And for the fans, this is a chance to see the Tigers play in a more intimate setting. While Alex Box Stadium has become one of the most electric environments in college baseball, there’s something special about taking the show on the road and giving fans in other parts of the state a front-row seat to elite talent.

Tonight’s game won’t make or break LSU’s season, but it will say something about who they are. Do they come out sharp? Do they play with energy? Do they treat their in-state opponent with respect? Based on how this team has performed all year, the expectation is yes on all counts.

As the national spotlight continues to grow, the Tigers have embraced the pressure. Rising to No. 3 in the polls is no small feat, especially given the depth of talent in the SEC and across the country. Every win adds weight to their résumé, and every game is a chance to prove they belong at the top.

Tonight, under the lights in Thibodaux, LSU gets another opportunity to do just that. It’s not Omaha yet. It’s not even Baton Rouge. But it’s another step on the journey—a Tuesday night on the road that carries more meaning than it might seem.

For now, the goal is simple: take care of business, play LSU baseball, and keep building toward something bigger. Because in this state, with this team, and this tradition, every game matters—even the ones that had to wait a little while to be played.