LSU baseball has landed another significant infielder through the transfer portal. Trent Caraway announced his commitment to play for the Tigers next season via social media on Tuesday.

Caraway spent the last two seasons at Oregon State. He made 63 starts at third base during the 2025 season. His impressive performance earned him the Corvallis Regional Most Outstanding Player award during the 2025 NCAA Tournament.

he played a crucial role in Oregon State’s journey to the College World Series. Caraway’s bat provided a powerful presence in the lineup.

As a sophomore, caraway posted a .267 batting average. He scored 51 runs and drove in 47 RBIs. He also contributed 12 home runs,with six of those coming during the postseason,setting a new program record.

During the College World Series in Omaha,Caraway batted leadoff. He recorded at least one hit in all three of the Beavers’ games there.

LSU’s infield experienced notable departures for the upcoming season. Jared Jones and Daniel Dickinson have moved on to MLB careers. Michael Braswell is no longer eligible, leaving significant gaps at key infield positions.

How does the increased use of the transfer portal impact LSU’s recruiting strategy?

LSU Lands Key Transfer from Vanderbilt Baseball Program

Vanderbilt Outfielder Ethan Long Commits to the Tigers

LSU baseball has substantially bolstered its roster with the commitment of Vanderbilt outfielder Ethan Long, a highly sought-after transfer announced earlier today. This acquisition is a major win for Coach Jay Johnson and the Tigers as they prepare for the 2026 season, aiming to build upon their recent College World Series success. The transfer portal has become a crucial element in college baseball recruiting, and LSU is proving adept at leveraging it.

Player Profile: Ethan Long – A Deep Dive

Ethan Long, a rising junior, brings a potent combination of speed, power, and defensive prowess to Baton Rouge. Hear’s a breakdown of his key attributes:

Hitting Stats (2024 Season at Vanderbilt): .278 batting average, 8 home runs, 35 RBIs, .380 on-base percentage.

Position: Primarily a centre fielder, but possesses the versatility to play all three outfield positions.

Strengths: Exceptional speed (recorded sub-6.5 second 60-yard dash times), strong arm, and developing power at the plate. Known for his aggressive base running and ability to disrupt opposing pitchers.

Scouting Reports: Considered a potential MLB draft pick after the 2025 season, Long’s decision to transfer indicates a desire for increased playing time and a prominent role in a championship-caliber program.

Impact on the LSU Outfield

The addition of Long immediately impacts LSU’s outfield depth and competition.The Tigers already boast a talented group of returning players, but Long’s skillset provides Coach Johnson with valuable flexibility.

Increased Competition: Long will likely compete with returning starters for playing time, pushing everyone to elevate their game.

Defensive Upgrade: His speed and range in center field will be a notable asset, improving LSU’s defensive capabilities.

Offensive Potential: Long’s power and on-base skills add another dimension to the LSU lineup, making it even more formidable.

Potential Lineup Combinations: Coach Johnson now has more options when constructing his batting order, allowing him to strategically place Long for maximum impact.

Why LSU? Long’s Decision factors

Several factors likely contributed to Long’s decision to transfer to LSU:

Championship Culture: LSU’s recent success, including a national championship in 2023 and a College World Series appearance in 2024, demonstrates a winning culture that appeals to ambitious players.

Developmental Opportunities: Coach Johnson has a proven track record of developing players and preparing them for professional baseball.

Fan Support: The passionate LSU fanbase creates an electric atmosphere at Alex Box Stadium, which is a major draw for recruits.

Strategic Fit: Long’s skillset complements the existing LSU roster,providing him with an prospect to thrive in a competitive surroundings.

Transfer Portal Dynamics: The evolving landscape of college baseball and the increased use of the transfer portal allowed Long to explore options and find the best fit for his career goals.

Increased Player Movement: The portal has led to a significant increase in player movement between schools.

Instant Impact Players: Transfers often provide immediate impact, bringing experiance and talent to their new teams.

Recruiting Challenges: Coaches must now navigate both customary high school recruiting and the transfer portal, requiring a more comprehensive recruiting strategy.

* LSU’s Approach: LSU has been proactive in utilizing the transfer portal, identifying and securing key players like Ethan Long to strengthen its roster.

Looking Ahead: LSU’s 2026 outlook

With the addition of Ethan Long, LSU is positioning itself for continued success in the years to come. The Tigers have a strong core of returning players, a talented recruiting class, and a coaching staff committed to excellence. The 2026 season promises to be an exciting one for LSU baseball fans. The team will be a strong contender for a national championship, and Long will undoubtedly play a key role in their pursuit of glory. The SEC baseball landscape is fiercely competitive, with programs like Florida, Texas A&M, and Arkansas consistently vying for the top spot. LSU’s ability to attract and develop top talent will be crucial in maintaining its position as a national powerhouse.