With a blistering start to his 2025 campaign, LSU’s Kade Anderson has emerged as one of college baseball’s most dominating mound forces. Following a string of elite outings, this southpaw now represents Baseball America’s midseason favorite for National Pitcher of the Year.
As the Tigers seek a deep postseason run, Anderson’s ascent from a gifted recruit to the ace of the staff has made him the linchpin of the Tigers’ rotation and a name to watch on MLB Draft boards.
LSU’s Kade Anderson Leads Midseason Award Projections
In an inspiring, slow climb to becoming LSU’s first pitcher in 2025, Anderson has been steady and impressive. The sophomore lefty showed sparks of ability during his freshman campaign but transitioned this season into a full-time starter with great confidence.
The demands of the increased workload have not slowed Anderson. This year has only seen improved command of his fastball, polish on his breaking ball, and credible innings for LSU. He currently leads the SEC in ERA and is fifth in strikeouts.
Anderson’s rise has not come without recognition. He is now regarded as a core player for LSU’s pitching staff and among the best arms in the nation.
Dominant Outings Turn Heads
Hollywood can start printing Anderson’s midseason resume, consisting of multiple double-digit strikeout games and shutouts against some of the best on his way to becoming a national prospect.
Fans and scouts alike have begun to notice during high-pressure moments and in-command performance when he finds the zone. Certainly, one of the highlights was fanning 11 in 7.2 shutout innings against ranked Florida.
His consistency has established Anderson as a reliable Friday night starter worth his weight in gold. Those performances are key reasons LSU has remained ranked in the national top 10 and is on course for a stout postseason push.
Draft Stock on the Rise
Anderson’s every showing appears to fuel more and more draft buzz talking. Baseball America recently gauged him as a first-round talent in its early 2025 mock draft.
Scouts have lauded his poise on the mound, mechanics, and ability to pitch extremely deep into games — all qualities that will serve him well at the next level.
If Anderson keeps producing at this level through May, he could very well be among the first college arms off the board this coming July.
What’s Next for Anderson and LSU?
Key series against the likes of Arkansas and Vanderbilt remain on the LSU schedule which will set out to test Anderson’s ability against top offense.
If he continues to guide the Tigers into battle and face down the best lineups in the nation, he will be a clear favorite for all national pitching honors.
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Anderson might most certainly be a big factor in LSU’s College World Series dream, which potentially sets the stage for his next name call in the first round of the MLB Draft.
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