When LSU fans think of future greatness on the mound, one name echoes loudly throughout Baton Rouge: Gavin Guidry. The talented right-hander, hailed as one of the crown jewels of LSU’s recent recruiting efforts, sent a wave of euphoria through the Tigers faithful this week when he announced that he was reaffirming his commitment to LSU baseball, officially shutting down his recruitment and canceling a highly anticipated visit to a rival SEC program.
Guidry’s public recommitment, complete with a heartfelt message to fans on social media and a reaffirming phone call to head coach Jay Johnson, wasn’t just a win for the program—it was a moment of clarity and passion for a young man who clearly bleeds purple and gold.
A Rollercoaster Recruitment Journey
Gavin Guidry, a Shreveport, Louisiana native and a product of Barbe High School in Lake Charles, originally committed to LSU during his junior year of high school. A standout on both the mound and in the infield, Guidry had long been considered a top-tier two-way prospect. But it was his electric arm, pinpoint control, and mental tenacity that set him apart as a pitcher destined for greatness in the SEC.
Despite his early pledge, the past several months saw Guidry’s name swirl through the rumor mill. With coaching shakeups, shifts in pitching staff philosophies, and heavy recruiting pressure from perennial powerhouses like Florida and Vanderbilt, it wasn’t long before whispers of a possible decommitment started surfacing.
In late May, Guidry even scheduled an official visit to the University of Florida—a visit that sent tremors through the LSU fanbase and sparked panic among Tiger faithful on social media.
But then, just days before the scheduled trip to Gainesville, Guidry made the call.
“I’m a Tiger. I always have been. I always will be,” he posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, alongside a photo of himself donning the iconic LSU pinstripes. “After lots of prayer and conversations with my family and Coach Johnson, I’ve decided to shut it down. No more visits. I’m 100% committed to LSU Baseball. Geaux Tigers!”
Jay Johnson’s Role in Guidry’s Decision
At the heart of Guidry’s recommitment was a renewed connection with LSU head coach Jay Johnson. The third-year skipper, known for his intense focus on player development and relationship-building, reportedly made multiple trips to Guidry’s hometown in recent weeks. One source close to the program described Johnson’s recruiting pitch as “passionate, personal, and persistent.”
“Coach Johnson never gave up on Gavin,” said the source. “Even when things got a little shaky and other schools were knocking on the door, Johnson kept the communication honest and steady. He didn’t pressure him—he just reminded Gavin of what LSU could offer, both on and off the field.”
In fact, Guidry himself spoke glowingly of his conversations with Johnson in a recent interview with The Advocate.
“He really took the time to explain the vision for me—not just as a player, but as a man. He talked about development, academics, and what it means to represent Louisiana on the national stage,” Guidry said. “That meant a lot. It wasn’t just a pitch. It was real.”
What Guidry Brings to the Mound
At 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds, Guidry brings a deceptive combination of power and finesse. His fastball consistently sits in the 92–94 mph range, but it’s the spin rate, arm-side run, and late life that makes it lethal. He also features a slider that tunnels well off the fastball, a developing changeup, and a curveball with sharp vertical break.
But perhaps his most important weapon is his composure.
Guidry has pitched in high-pressure environments since his early high school days. He led Barbe High to a state championship appearance as a sophomore and threw a complete game shutout in the semifinals, striking out 11 against a lineup stacked with Division I hitters.
Scouts have often praised his mound presence and his ability to make in-game adjustments—a skill that Johnson and pitching coach Wes Johnson (no relation) believe will make him a weekend starter early in his college career.
“He’s not just raw talent,” said Wes Johnson. “Gavin’s got the mindset. He understands the game, he prepares like a pro, and he competes like one, too.”
Fan Reaction: Guidry’s Loyalty Sparks Social Media Frenzy
If there’s one thing LSU fans love, it’s loyalty—and Gavin Guidry’s recommitment triggered a celebration across Tiger Nation. Within minutes of his announcement, hashtags like #ForeverLSU, #GavinIsHome, and #GeauxGuidry were trending across Baton Rouge-based message boards and Twitter circles.
On LSU’s popular 247Sports message board “Geaux247,” fans flooded the site with posts praising Guidry’s character and leadership.
“This kid just became an LSU legend before throwing a single pitch in Alex Box,” one poster wrote. “We need more young men like him—loyal, talented, and proud to represent our state.”
Another user added, “Florida tried. Vanderbilt tried. But in the end, Gavin Guidry stayed loyal to the Boot. This is what makes LSU baseball special.”
The Tigers’ coaching staff also joined the chorus. Coach Jay Johnson retweeted Guidry’s post with a simple message: “The future is bright. Let’s work.”
The Importance of In-State Stars Staying Home
Guidry’s recommitment also signifies a crucial win in the battle to keep Louisiana’s top baseball talent in-state. With the rise of NIL deals and the increasing pull of out-of-state programs, LSU—like many blueblood programs—has faced stiff competition for local stars in recent cycles.
That’s why Guidry’s decision is about more than just one player. It’s about setting a tone.
“Gavin staying home sends a message to every kid in Louisiana,” said recruiting analyst Ben McDonald (yes, that Ben McDonald). “LSU is still the dream. LSU is still the goal. And when you get the opportunity to wear those colors, you take it.”
Looking Ahead: Guidry’s Projected Role in 2026 and Beyond
With Guidry’s commitment solidified, all eyes now turn to how he’ll be used in Baton Rouge.
LSU’s current pitching depth chart is rich with returning arms and incoming transfers, but there’s a growing belief that Guidry could contend for a weekend rotation spot as early as his freshman year in 2026.
“He’s that advanced,” said LSU pitching coordinator Blake Dean. “His mechanics are clean, his mental game is elite, and he’s not afraid of big moments. Whether it’s midweek starts or out of the pen initially, I guarantee you’ll see him in meaningful innings.”
There’s also still a possibility that Guidry could contribute as a two-way player. Though he’s made his biggest splash on the mound, his glove work and bat have drawn interest. During his senior year, he batted .351 with 7 home runs and 28 RBIs, and his athleticism at shortstop was a weapon.
For now, LSU plans to give him the chance to do both—at least in fall ball.
“We’re not going to limit him,” said Johnson. “He’s earned the right to show us what he can do in every area.”
In the high-stakes world of college baseball recruiting, players flip. Coaches move. Programs change. But every now and then, a story emerges that reminds everyone why college baseball still thrives on loyalty, heart, and hometown pride.
Gavin Guidry’s recommitment to LSU isn’t just a storyline for the summer—it’s a defining moment for the Tigers’ 2025 recruiting class and a symbol of what makes LSU baseball a national powerhouse.
The ace stayed home. The boot beat the rivals. And Tiger Nation got the answer it was hoping for.
Geaux Tigers.
Quick Stats: Gavin Guidry
- Position: RHP / INF
- Height/Weight: 6’1″, 190 lbs
- Hometown: Shreveport, Louisiana
- High School: Barbe High School (Lake Charles, LA)
- Fastball: 92–94 mph
- Notable Honors: Perfect Game All-American, All-State Selection (2023, 2024)
- Commitment Status: 100% Committed to LSU Baseball
