Just a few days after Jared Jones and Ethan Frey were drafted to the MLB, LSU coach Jay Johnson dipped into the NCAA’s transfer portal to get their likely replacement at either first base or DH.
The Tigers got a commitment from Grand Canyon first baseman Zach Yorke today – giving LSU a player that was widely regarded as among the top pure hitters in the portal.
Yorke is a big boy. He’s listed at 6-foot-2-inches and 295 pounds. But he can swing it. Last year, he hit .339 with 13 home runs and 46 RBI.
As a true freshman in 2023, Yorke hit .368 with 61 RBI in 56 games.
One thing the Tigers like about their new prospect is his patience at the plate. Yorke sees the baseball exceptionally well and gets on base. In all 3 of his collegiate seasons, he has walked more than he has struck out. Last season, he drew 35 walks compared to 28 K’s.
York will very likely be a middle of the order bat for LSU – part of a lineup that should be loaded again in 2026.
The Tigers will be replacing their catcher, first baseman, second baseman and third baseman, but return a talented outfield and have signed portal standouts at virtually every infield position to boost their depth.