LSU Baseball Dominates UCF in Jacksonville

Tigers complete 3-0 weekend at the "Live Like Lou Jax Classic"

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The LSU Tigers baseball team secured a run-rule victory over UCF on Sunday, capping off a 3-0 performance at the "Live Like Lou Jax Classic" in Jacksonville. Sophomore pitcher William Schmidt delivered a standout outing, while Mavrick Rizy provided strong relief, as the Tigers' bats continued to produce.

Why it matters

This series win in Jacksonville keeps LSU undefeated at 8-0 to start the season, building momentum as they return home to face McNeese on Tuesday. The Tigers' depth and strong pitching have been on display through the first three weeks of the season.

The details

LSU followed up wins over Indiana and Notre Dame on Friday with a dominant performance against UCF on Sunday. Sophomore William Schmidt pitched five shutout innings, allowing just three hits while striking out seven and walking one. Mavrick Rizy provided solid relief, as the Tigers' offense was led by Derek Curiel, who went 3-for-4 with a double and three RBIs. Brayden Simpson also had a productive day, going 1-for-2 with two walks and two runs scored.

  • The Tigers are now 8-0 to start the 2026 season.
  • LSU will return home on Tuesday, February 25th, to face McNeese.

The players

William Schmidt

A sophomore pitcher from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, who delivered a standout outing with five shutout innings, three hits allowed, seven strikeouts, and one walk.

Mavrick Rizy

The Tigers' relief pitcher who provided strong support in the victory over UCF.

Derek Curiel

An LSU batter who had the best game of his season so far, going 3-for-4 with a double and three RBIs.

Brayden Simpson

A High Point transfer who had a productive day at the plate, going 1-for-2 with two walks and two runs scored.

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What’s next

The Tigers will return home on Tuesday, February 25th, to face McNeese at Alex Box Stadium.

The takeaway

LSU's strong start to the season, fueled by impressive pitching performances and a productive offense, has the Tigers well-positioned as they head back home to continue their early-season success.