LSU’s Jay Johnson Reacts to the Tigers Making it to the College World Series.

After leading the LSU Tigers to a College World Series title in 2023, last year’s season ended with a thud. In 2925, there was no doubt that the Tigers were talented but they did have some struggles offensively at different points in the season.

Fortunately for LSU, this team appears to be coming together at the perfect moment.

After the game, LSU head coach Jay Johnson expressed his gratitude. “Very thankful. Don't take these nights for granted. I'll be the first coach to acknowledge they don't happen without special human beings, and that's what we've got right here. I've known Steven [Milam] since he was in seventh grade, and he's the best shortstop in America, and took another step, it wasn't just a great college player this weekend, that's what a Major League player looked like in the batter's box. And it was the reason that our offense played close to its capability. With Jared [Jones], he made a decision to come back this season for this and this opportunity ahead of us next week and to be at the front of it. And that's what he's been. And three years, a lot of blood, sweat and tears in the bucket. Couldn't be prouder of the person that he is, the leader he is. Obviously he's a great player. Just very thankful that he made that decision. And it's just the way that it is now,” said Johnson.

Every summer, one guy tips the scales whether you can actually get there or not. And Anthony was that guy. And from one phone conversation and you pair the attitude, the character, the conviction and watch him pitch, it's like we have to have this guy. There's no way we could not have him at LSU this year.

Johnson continued, “I really wanted these guys to go because they earned it. Whether we won two games this weekend or not they earned a trip to the College World Series. And I can't wait to go chase a national championship with them. It's been a great 12 months, and honestly it started with a lot of heart break in Chapel Hill last year. That team played as good as they possibly could to win that regional. And we didn't. We came up a little short. You look around after a few days, there's only 12 returning players from last year's team because of the draft and other things. And I told them after the game, I'm super proud of them because the rewards of tough and together were out there on the field tonight. Like I said, I can't wait -- they're worthy, and I can't wait to go chase a national championship with them,” added Johnson.

Johnson was asked about this being his 500th career win and any extra significance. “Like I said, I don't take it for granted. Very proud. It's a big life change coming out here. And I know where I'm at and I know what I'm entrusted with. I give it my entire life. And I give it to these guys and they give it back to me. It's so fun and exciting and rewarding to see all those people so passionate and thankful for the effort that everybody in this program that everybody cares so much about be appreciated. And it was an awesome night. And just a lot of gratitude and very thankful,” said Johnson.

Full press conference is below.