Jay Johnson and the LSU baseball program have made a significant move in recruiting as highly touted right-handed pitcher William Schmidt has opted to forgo the 2024 MLB Draft.
Schmidt, ranked as the top right-handed pitcher in the 2024 high school class and a projected first-round draft pick, has committed to LSU instead. As the No. 5 overall prospect and top prospect in Louisiana, Schmidt, a Baton Rouge native, will now play for his hometown team in purple and gold.
Fresh off leading Catholic High Bears to a state championship, Schmidt’s decision comes as a surprise amidst expectations he would pursue a professional career immediately after high school. By choosing LSU, Schmidt becomes the highest-ranked recruit ever to enroll at the university.
Announcing his decision on social media, Schmidt will join LSU early this summer, bolstering a roster that has been strengthened further through the NCAA Transfer Portal.
His commitment adds depth and talent to LSU’s 2024 recruiting class, which also includes standout outfielder Curiel, ranked 117th overall in the 2024 MLB Draft.
Curiel’s arrival enhances LSU’s outfield, complementing freshmen Jake Brown and Ashton Larson, who secured starting roles late in the previous season. With these additions, LSU anticipates formidable outfield depth heading into the 2025 campaign.
