Logan Schmidt commits to LSU baseball for the 2027 season
Logan Schmidt, a left‑handed pitcher who was ranked No. 45 overall in the 2026 MLB Draft, announced his commitment to LSU’s baseball program for the 2027 season. The decision came after the Cleveland Guardians selected him in the second round, but Schmidt elected to forgo the professional contract and instead reclassify to graduate high school early.
Schmidt’s fastball has already shown the ability to reach 94–97 mph, and scouts project further gains as he matures. In addition to a sharp slider, he pairs the fastball with a well‑sold changeup, creating a three‑pitch mix that scouting reports describe as well‑rounded for a pitcher of his age.
The commitment marks a significant addition for LSU, which missed the NCAA Tournament in 2026 for the first time since 2011. Head coach Jay Johnson, who took over the program in recent years, used the offseason to rebuild the roster through the transfer portal and an aggressive high‑school recruiting push.
The Tigers’ 2027 class includes the nation’s top high‑school recruiting group, headlined by Schmidt, and also features a top‑five transfer portal haul. This infusion of talent is intended to restore the program’s national relevance after a rare tournament absence.
Scouting perspective
MLB.com’s evaluation highlights Schmidt’s velocity increase and the plus rating of his slider, while noting the changeup’s strong arm speed. Analysts suggest that, despite his youth, he could eventually anchor the weekend rotation, though he is likely to begin his collegiate career in midweek games as he adjusts to the SEC’s intensity.
Schmidt’s choice underscores a broader trend in which elite prospects weigh college development against immediate professional offers. By staying in school, he gains an extra year of amateur eligibility that could enhance his draft stock should he decide to re‑enter the draft after his junior season.
For LSU, the arrival of a player who will be just 17 at the time of the MLB Draft adds a narrative of early promise. The program hopes that his presence will not only boost on‑field performance but also attract further top talent to Baton Rouge.