LSU received a major boost to its 2026 recruiting class after highly touted left-handed pitcher Logan Schmidt announced on Saturday he's heading to Baton Rouge.
Schmidt, a 6-foot-4 left-hander from Aliso Viejo, California, was selected by the Cleveland Guardians in the second round of last month's Major League Baseball Draft. However, the two sides were unable to reach an agreement on a signing bonus before the deadline, allowing Schmidt to honor his commitment to LSU.
His arrival is significant for an LSU program looking to strengthen its pitching staff after a disappointing 2026 season that ended without an NCAA Tournament appearance.
According to MLB.com's scouting report, Schmidt impressed scouts by reaching 97 mph with his fastball during the prestigious Area Code Games. He also features a sharp slider in the 78-81 mph range, a swing-and-miss breaking ball and a developing changeup. Scouts have also praised his ability to consistently throw strikes.
Schmidt reclassified academically, graduating a year early, and will arrive on campus at just 18 years old.
After negotiations with the Guardians broke down, there was speculation Schmidt could attend junior college and become draft-eligible again in 2027. Instead, he chose to begin his college career under LSU coach Jay Johnson and pitching coach Nate Yeskie.
Schmidt adds another elite arm to what is considered one of the nation's top recruiting classes. LSU is set to welcome seven Top 100 prospects, according to Perfect Game's rankings:
- No. 12: LHP Logan Schmidt
- No. 28: OF Malachi Washington
- No. 34: OF Nate Davis
- No. 45: 1B/OF Dominic Santarelli
- No. 50: LHP/1B/OF Lucas Nawrocki
- No. 83: RHP Cooper Sides
- No. 97: SS Parker Loew
Schmidt's addition gives LSU another high-ceiling arm as the Tigers look to rebound and return to national contention.
