Steven Milam, the LSU junior shortstop who entered the draft conversation as a potential early‑round selection, announced that he will forgo signing and will return for his senior year.
His mother confirmed the decision to The Advocate, stating that the family has been evaluating the long‑term benefits of completing his college career against the immediate allure of professional opportunities.
Milam’s offensive output has been a cornerstone of the Tigers’ lineup, as he hit 11 home runs last season while posting a .937 OPS, and he was even more dominant in SEC play, batting .308 with a .949 OPS.
Defensively, he committed only four errors over the course of the previous season, helping him maintain a career fielding percentage of .979.
The move also comes as LSU adds depth through the transfer portal, welcoming second baseman Cade Kurland from Florida and shortstop Dawson Park from Texas State.
Kurland, who limited himself to a single error this year, brings a disciplined approach at the plate, while Park, a strong defender in his first full‑time starter season, is expected to shore up the infield.
Strategic implications for the program
Coaches view the return of Milam alongside the new transfers as a calculated strategy to preserve offensive firepower while reinforcing defensive stability. The blend of experience and fresh talent positions LSU to remain competitive in the SEC and to contend for a national championship.