LSU Baseball Faces Kent State in Monday Clash

Tigers look to stay undefeated as they host the Golden Flashes at Alex Box Stadium

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Jay Johnson and the LSU Tigers will return to Alex Box Stadium on Monday night for a non-conference clash against Kent State. Right-hander Jaden Noot is set to take the mound for the defending national champions, who are looking to start the season 4-0.

Why it matters

LSU is the defending national champion and ranked No. 1 in multiple preseason polls. This early-season matchup against Kent State provides the Tigers an opportunity to continue their strong start and build momentum heading into conference play.

The details

In what will be LSU's fourth game in as many days, Johnson and the Tigers will field a new starting lineup as they look to make another statement. The lineup features several returning starters, including outfielder Chris Stanfield, infielder Tanner Reaves, and catcher Cade Arrambide.

  • The game is scheduled for 6 p.m. CT on Monday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Jay Johnson

The 2023 and 2025 National Coach of the Year, Johnson is in his fifth season as the head coach of the LSU baseball program.

Jaden Noot

The right-handed pitcher will take the mound for the Tigers in Monday's matchup against Kent State.

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What they’re saying

“We have eight games in the first 10 days of the season. That's a heavy lift, so we have to be smart about doing what we need to do to win the first game, and then put this whole picture together. Our goal is to win every single game that we can, and figure out our best team as we go.”

— Jay Johnson, Head Coach (SI.com)

“Our guys are ready to complete, they want to play an opponent. I think we would have a mutiny if I told them they had to scrimmage themselves again this weekend.”

— Jay Johnson, Head Coach (SI.com)

What’s next

The Tigers will look to continue their strong start to the season and build momentum heading into SEC play.

The takeaway

LSU, the defending national champions, are poised for another successful season with a talented roster and experienced coaching staff. This early-season matchup against Kent State provides an opportunity for the Tigers to showcase their depth and continue their winning ways.