Derek Curiel entered his sophomore year with high expectations, but a November ankle fracture forced him into a compressed preparation window, leaving him just three weeks to get ready for the season.
Despite the limited time, he still managed to post a .353 batting average, a .431 on‑base percentage and a .526 slugging percentage, while scoring 64 runs and hitting six home runs for LSU.
A season of resilience
His performances helped the Tigers secure a spot in the 2025 College World Series and earned him the SEC’s preseason player of the year honor for 2026, cementing his status as a top draft‑eligible prospect.
Social media rumors about the injury circulated before the season, but Curiel addressed the speculation directly, emphasizing toughness and determination as he spoke about the team’s early‑season challenges and his recovery.
Now projected as a top prospect for the upcoming July draft, he has hinted at the possibility of returning to LSU, leaving fans to wonder whether his next move will be professional or another year in Baton Rouge.