Baton Rouge, LA, October 10, 2025
News Summary
LSU’s Derek Curiel is set to change positions from left field to center field, following a standout freshman season. The move aims to bolster the Tigers’ outfield defense as Chris Stanfield moves to left field. Curiel’s impressive batting average of .345 and perfect fielding percentage highlights his potential, as the team prepares for upcoming exhibition games and their regular season opener. With strength training over the summer, Curiel adds weight and muscle, enhancing his play as LSU seeks its third national championship in five seasons.
LSU’s Derek Curiel Transitioning to Center Field for 2026 Baseball Season
BATON ROUGE, LA – LSU star Derek Curiel is set to make a significant position change for the upcoming 2026 baseball season, moving from left field to center field. This transition is part of a strategic adjustment initiated by head coach Jay Johnson aimed at enhancing the team’s outfield defense.
Current center fielder Chris Stanfield will be moving to left field to accommodate Curiel’s new role. This decision comes on the heels of Curiel’s standout performance during his freshman year, where he was recognized as the National Freshman of the Year by D1 Baseball.
In his freshman season, Curiel recorded an impressive batting average of .345 and an OPS of .990. His fielding was equally remarkable, as he maintained a perfect fielding percentage in 2025, contributing two outfield assists. Curiel’s offensive prowess was showcased through his 29 extra-base hits, which included 20 doubles, 2 triples, and 7 home runs, along with 55 RBIs. His ability to discipline himself at the plate was evident as he achieved nearly an equal number of walks (53) compared to strikeouts (56).
Further accolades for Curiel include being selected for the College World Series All-Tournament Team and earning second-team All-SEC honors. Coach Johnson praised Curiel’s talent, indicating that he possesses the “it factor” for performing under pressure, instrumental as the Tigers advance through the competitive landscape of college baseball.
As preparations for the new season commence, the Tigers will undertake fall exhibition games, kicking off with a match against Samford on November 2, 2026. LSU’s regular season is set to open against Milwaukee on February 13, 2026, followed by an SEC opener against Vanderbilt on March 13, 2026.
During the summer, Curiel focused on strength training, which has paid off as he increased his weight from 174 to 194 pounds. His strength training also included improvements in his bench press, which went from 155 pounds to 225 pounds.
The LSU baseball program will be bolstered by a robust roster, featuring 19 returning players along with 20 new additions for the coming season. With aspirations for another title, LSU aims to secure its third national championship in five seasons, a significant feat that underscores the program’s elite status.
Additionally, the Tigers will have the opportunity to celebrate their 2025 national championship victory with a visit to the White House, an honor reflecting their success on the national stage.
Key Season Dates
- November 2, 2026: Fall exhibition game against Samford
- February 13, 2026: Regular season opener against Milwaukee
- March 13, 2026: SEC opener against Vanderbilt
Summary of Derek Curiel’s 2025 Achievements
- Batting Average: .345
- OPS: .990
- Extra-base Hits: 29
- RBIs: 55
- Fielding Percentage: 100%
- Walks: 53
- Strikeouts: 56
FAQ
- What position is Derek Curiel transitioning to for the 2026 baseball season?
- Derek Curiel is moving from left field to center field for the 2026 baseball season.
- Who is moving to left field to accommodate this change?
- Chris Stanfield, the current center fielder, will shift to left field.
- What were Curiel’s major achievements in his freshman season?
- Curiel achieved a batting average of .345, an OPS of .990, and a perfect fielding percentage while earning National Freshman of the Year honors.
- What is LSU’s baseball program aiming for in terms of national championships?
- LSU’s baseball program is looking to secure its third national championship in five seasons.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player | Derek Curiel |
| New Position | Center Field |
| Previous Position | Left Field |
| Batting Average | .345 |
| OPS | .990 |
| Fielding Percentage | 100% |
| Extra-base Hits | 29 |
| RBIs | 55 |
| Walks | 53 |
| Strikeouts | 56 |
| Summer Weight | 194 pounds |
| Bench Press Increase | From 155 to 225 pounds |
| Upcoming Exhibition Game | Against Samford on November 2, 2026 |
| Regular Season Opener | Against Milwaukee on February 13, 2026 |
| SEC Opener | Against Vanderbilt on March 13, 2026 |
