LSU’s baseball standout, right-handed pitcher Luke Holman, has been selected by the Cincinnati Reds as the No. 71 overall pick in the competitive balance round B of the 2024 MLB draft.
Holman capped off a stellar season with LSU, boasting a commendable 2.75 ERA across 16 games. His impressive performance included striking out 127 batters over 91⅔ innings, showcasing his prowess on the mound throughout his tenure with the Tigers.
Originally hailing from Pennsylvania, Holman began his collegiate baseball journey at Alabama before making the move to LSU last offseason. During his time with the Crimson Tide, he garnered attention with a 3.67 ERA in 15 starts as a sophomore, following a freshman season where he recorded a 5.68 ERA over 19 innings.
Ranked as the No. 4 player in Pennsylvania and the 72nd right-handed pitcher in the nation from the Class of 2022 by Perfect Game, Holman’s trajectory continued to ascend with each season, culminating in his selection by the Reds in this year’s draft.
Interestingly, Holman’s draft journey wasn’t limited to the 2024 event alone. Previously, he was also drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 20th round of the 2021 MLB draft, underscoring his consistent appeal to professional scouts.
With Holman’s departure, LSU faces the challenge of filling his significant role in the pitching rotation. Returning right-handers Chase Shores and Jaden Noot, both recovering from injury setbacks, stand poised to potentially step into pivotal roles. Noot, who underwent Tommy John surgery and missed the previous season, made a limited return with one inning pitched this year. Similarly, Shores continues his recovery journey following the same procedure in 2023, contributing to LSU’s depth as they strategize for the upcoming season.
In anticipation of Holman’s departure, LSU has proactively bolstered its pitching staff through the transfer portal, securing seven new right-handed pitchers. Additionally, left-hander Griffin Herring remains a prospective candidate for the Tigers, offering further depth and versatility as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in collegiate baseball.
Holman’s selection by the Cincinnati Reds marks a significant milestone in his baseball career, transitioning from standout collegiate pitcher to a promising prospect in professional baseball. His journey from Pennsylvania to LSU and now to the MLB draft underscores his dedication and skill, setting the stage for a new chapter of challenges and opportunities in the world of baseball.
As LSU bids farewell to Holman and prepares for the season ahead, his legacy as a formidable pitcher and valuable team member continues to resonate within the Tigers’ baseball program, leaving an indelible mark on the collegiate sports landscape.
