Facing elimination against Little rock, LSU baseball coach Jay Johnson implemented a meaningful lineup adjustment for the first time in the NCAA tournament. With the season on the line, the decision proved pivotal.

Jared Jones, previously batting second, was moved to the sixth spot, while Ethan Frey, a key offensive player, was placed in the two-hole. Thes changes, combined with ongoing adjustments to the batting order, allowed the Tigers to rally and defeat the Trojans, earning them a place in the Baton Rouge Regional.

“You risk when you have a lot to enter,” Johnson said. “We had the opportunity to run a regional super at home, two victories to go to Omaha, seven more to enter a Franco championship, maybe eight. It was time to risk.”

Derek Curiel remained in his leadoff position, drawing two walks, while Frey had an outstanding performance with four hits, four RBIs, and two walks. Johnson commended both players, along with Steven Milam, for their crucial contributions.

“He is [Curiel’s] The engine of this attack and how it plays inspires the team.”

johnson emphasized the importance of getting Frey as many at-bats as possible, aiming to put immediate pressure on opposing pitchers. He also praised Milam’s performance, noting the quality of his at-bats throughout the regional.

“And then, his Ethan Frey, one of the best batters in the contry at this time,” said Johnson.

“His hit shifts this weekend were him as his best athlete. He will play baseball for a long time if he takes the caliber of the spin to the bat he has,” said Johnson.

Explaining the decision to move Jones to the sixth spot, Johnson said he wanted Jones to capitalize on opportunities later in the order, potentially facing pitchers who might be tiring or overlooked. This strategic move aimed to give Jones an advantage.

“In the best teams I have had,that type of six holes,after having to work on the first five and all those types that do their job,sometimes they can forget a little. Or the thrower went down a little. And he wanted to give that superiority to Jared,” said Johnson.

The lineup change proved successful, with LSU scoring 10 runs. The team now prepares for the Baton Rouge Super Regional against west virginia, which begins on Saturday.