LSU’s Derek Curiel: From Freshman Phenom to Potential No. 1 Draft Pick
The trajectory of LSU baseball outfielder Derek Curiel has been remarkably consistent with expectations. From the moment he stepped onto campus, the anticipation was that the draft-eligible sophomore would spend two seasons in Baton Rouge, with his second year seeing him transition to centerfield – a prediction that appears to be unfolding exactly as forecasted.
A Record-Breaking Freshman Campaign
Curiel’s 2025 freshman season was nothing short of exceptional. He was the best position player on a national championship-winning team, achieving this as an 18-year-classic in his first year of collegiate baseball. He started all 68 games, primarily in left field (62 starts), with three appearances in centerfield and three as the designated hitter.
He led the team with a .345 batting average and was a standout performer in the SEC. Curiel topped the conference with 20 doubles and ranked among the league leaders in hits (4th/89), walks (3rd/53), and on-base percentage (4th/.470). He also maintained a perfect fielding record, committing zero errors throughout the season.
His ability to consistently reach base was particularly impressive, achieving this in the first 43 games of his collegiate career – the fifth-longest streak in LSU history. This places him in esteemed company alongside former LSU stars like Crews, Mahtook, Dugas, and Bregman.
Sophomore Surge: Power and Potential
Analysts predict a significant jump in Curiel’s performance from his freshman to sophomore year. Already possessing exceptional plate discipline and the ability to handle two-strike counts, the primary area for improvement is anticipated to be his power hitting. Having gained between 15-20 pounds in the offseason, the expectation is that this added muscle will translate into more home runs.
Although he may not reach the power levels of players like Bear Jones or Dylan Crews, increasing his home run total from seven to around twelve is considered a realistic goal. Even a modest improvement could solidify his position as one of the nation’s top players.
The consensus is that Curiel’s best baseball is still ahead of him. A mere one percent improvement could make him arguably the best player in college baseball.
The Future of Centerfield: William Patrick
With Curiel widely projected to be a high draft pick after the 2026 season, attention is turning to the future of LSU’s centerfield position. True freshman William Patrick is emerging as the potential heir apparent.
Patrick, ranked as the No. 2 overall player in Louisiana by Perfect Game and No. 121 nationally, possesses elite speed and defensive skills. He set the MLB Combine record with a 6.29 60-yard dash and demonstrates a strong arm. While his hitting is still developing, his overall athleticism suggests a promising future, potentially as a pinch runner or defensive replacement in 2026, with the potential to become a first-round draft pick himself.
Derek Curiel: Key Stats
| Name | Class | Height/Weight | Bats/Throws | GP/GS | Hits | 2Bs | 3Bs | HR | RBI | BA | OBP | Slugging |
| 6 Derek Curiel | Soph. | 6’2”/192 | L/L | 68/68 | 89 | 20 | 2 | 7 | 55 | .345 | .470 | .519 |
Did you know?
Derek Curiel reached base in the first 43 games of his collegiate career, placing him fifth in LSU history for longest streak!
FAQ
Q: What position does Derek Curiel play?
A: Derek Curiel is an outfielder, primarily playing left field, but is transitioning to centerfield.
Q: What was Derek Curiel’s batting average in 2025?
A: Derek Curiel had a .345 batting average in 2025.
Q: Who is expected to replace Derek Curiel in centerfield?
A: William Patrick, a true freshman, is considered the potential heir apparent in centerfield.
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