LSU’s Kade Anderson Shines in College World Series Finals

On Saturday night, LSU starting pitcher Kade Anderson took the mound for the first game of the men’s College World Series Finals against Coastal Carolina, who had an impressive 26-game winning streak, led by pitcher Cameron Flukey.

Both pitchers showcased their skills, but it was Anderson and the Tigers who ultimately prevailed in this exciting pitching battle.

Anderson faced a bit of a challenge at the start, walking a batter but regaining his focus. The Tigers scored in the bottom of the first inning when Derek Culiel walked, moved to second on a fielder’s choice, and then crossed home plate thanks to a single from shortstop Steven Milam.

This early run was crucial for both Anderson and the Tigers.

The left-handed ace, who is in contention for the first overall pick, really brought his best game. He struck out Coastal Carolina’s right fielder Bragen Pad at the end of the eighth inning, finishing with an impressive eight innings pitched. After Pad fouled off the first pitch, Anderson delivered his 114th pitch of the night.

His 115th pitch was a 94 mph fastball that caught Pad looking for strike three.

Anderson continued to dominate in the ninth, starting the inning by striking out Colby Thorndique with three nasty breaking balls, marking his tenth strikeout of the night.

Next up was Dean Mihos, who was out at third, leaving Shanticler to face the final out. Coastal Carolina then sent in freshman Domenico Tozzi as a pinch hitter, who drew a walk from Anderson.

LSU head coach Jay Johnson had pitching coach Nate Yeski check in with Anderson after nine batters faced. After a brief chat and some encouragement, Yeski returned to the dugout, leaving Anderson to focus on catching signals from Louis Hernandez.

The first pitch of the at-bat, and the 129th of the game, was a 95 mph strike on the inside corner. Anderson ended the game on his 130th pitch.

This marked the first complete game shutout in the MCWS Finals since 2018, when Oregon’s Kevin Abel blanked Arkansas. In total, Anderson allowed three hits and five walks over nine innings while recording ten strikeouts.

This was also Coastal Carolina’s second shutout of the season, marking their first loss since April 22nd.

LSU will aim to close the series and secure the championship in Game 2 tomorrow. Meanwhile, Coastal Carolina will look to extend their season and force a Game 3 to decide the winner.